Initiative for Computational Catalysis

GeoPEX is AFRL's standing vehicle for geospatial intelligence research and it is unusually well-suited to AI teams because the problem set - turning imagery and geospatial data into intelligence at scale - is fundamentally a machine learning problem. The BAA seeks research, development, integration, test and evaluation of technologies and techniques that provide GEOINT in all its forms and from whatever source, whether imagery, imagery intelligence, or geospatial data and information. Named focus areas include Full-Spectrum GEOINT, AI and machine learning techniques, multi-peak data production, cloud-based high-performance computing, and photogrammetry. The funding envelope is substantial and the range is wide: individual awards run USD 250,000 to USD 10,000,000 over periods normally not exceeding 36 months, against estimated total programme funding of approximately USD 99,900,000 - which means both a focused university effort and a large integrated industry programme can find a home here. Submission mechanics are the standard AFRL two-step and should be planned for accordingly: only white papers are accepted as initial submissions and formal proposals are accepted by invitation only, so the white paper is the whole competition from the proposer's perspective. Award instruments include procurement contracts, grants, cooperative agreements and other transactions, which gives flexibility on the university side. Submissions require Standard Form 424 and a Security Program Questionnaire, and awards are subject to science and technology protection requirements under AFRLI 61-113 and to FASCSA compliance. The BAA is open and continuous with white papers accepted through 30 September 2026; the BAA programme manager contact is afrl.rig.geopex@us.af.mil.