Spark Tank

DARPA is hosting the MXO Spark Tank event for prospective proposers and future collaborators on Nov. 2-4, 2026, in Chicago, Illinois. The event will include overview presentations by DARPA personnel and opportunities for 1:1 engagement with MXO program managers and leadership via sidebar meetings.

The goals of MXO Spark Tank are to:

• Familiarize participants with MXO’s mission, interest areas, and ongoing efforts
• Facilitate discussions with potential proposers
• Increase the efficiency in proposal preparation and evaluation
• Broaden MXO’s reach with small businesses, educational institutions, and other nontraditional performers to break down barriers of entry for performers new to DARPA and the national security space

University Engagement Session

As part of Spark Tank, MXO will host a dedicated session for the university research community the afternoon of Nov. 4. This closed-door discussion is an opportunity to engage with MXO Director Whitney Mason around collaboration pathways, as well as address any perceived hurdles with working with DARPA and MXO.

Participants are encouraged to bring feedback and insights on the following questions:

• Is it clear how to work and communicate with MXO?
• Do you believe there are still active challenges in partnering with us? If so, what are they?
• What are your biggest administrative or operational concerns?
• Do you have a clear understanding of CUI requirements, public release requirements, and the differences between the two?
• What else can MXO do to improve overall engagement with the academic community?

Note: Individuals interested in attending this session can register for both Spark Tank and the meeting, or for the university session on its own.