It only seems odd because from the outside it's a big, faceless, scary bureaucracy. The Valley and that ecosystem seems that way to most folks outside it, too. There's serious cash to be had from USG and arguably fewer strings than you get on most term sheets.

Once you get past the scary outside, you realize it's normal people on the inside. Submit a proposal and you'll find they're delighted to help you. And they'll give you funding.

Thanks for the congratulations. I never expected to apply for a grant from DARPA. Defense contracting makes my head spin. But this program reduces this friction so individuals with good ideas can apply and get funded. It's a really neat opportunity.