The University of Utah Office of the Vice President for Research is pleased to announce the release of the High Tech West 2027–2028 Request for Proposals (RFP), published April 1, 2026.
High Tech West is the university’s premier intramural funding program supporting early-stage (TRL 1–3) research aligned with national security priorities. This annual pitch competition brings together interdisciplinary research teams, industry partners, and federal stakeholders to accelerate innovative solutions to critical challenges.
For 2027, proposals are invited across two tracks:
- Engineering, Space & Defense Systems
Focused on physical systems, autonomy, sensing, infrastructure, and space technologies. - Health, Biotechnology & Military Medicine
Focused on human performance, survivability, biosecurity, and operational medicine.
Selected teams will compete at the High Tech West Pitch Event on February 25, 2027, with funding awards of up to $250,000 available.
Key Dates:
- White Paper Due: July 1, 2026
- Full Proposal (if selected): September 1, 2026
- Final Application Deadline: October 1, 2026
Researchers across campus are strongly encouraged to form interdisciplinary teams and align proposals with Department of Defense critical technology areas and federal R&D priorities.
👉 Apply here: https://utah.infoready4.com/#freeformCompetitionDetail/2011009
📩 Questions: jim.mcdonough@utah.edu
