URL: https://www.darpa.mil/events/2026/spark-tank
Objectives
The Spark Tank Sidebar Meetings are for registered attendees to participate in a 15-minute sidebar meeting with either a) MXO Program Managers for technical discussion, and/or b) MXO Leadership to learn about DARPA MXO Program Manager position opportunities. For option a), attendees may request a sidebar meeting with up to 3 of the MXO Program Managers listed here. Sidebars will be scheduled by DARPA until capacity is met for each MXO PM.
The MXO Spark Tank event will be held on November 2 – 4, 2026 in person in Chicago, Illinois at the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile.
DARPA’s Multi-X Office (MXO) launched in May 2026 as the next generation of the former Microsystems Technology Office (MTO) with a mission to disrupt across scale and function to dominate militarily and economically. MXO explores materials at the atomic, molecular, and cellular scales to develop novel components, tools, and processes with the potential to reshape the battlespace and economies of the future.
Funding Information
No direct funding is associated with this LSO. The result is a conversation with up to 3 DARPA MXO Program Managers at the event.
The registration fee is $450 for attendees.
Eligibility
All interested registrants must coordinate with Research Development and Federal Relations to register for the DARPA MXO Spark Tank event to ensure BU complies with attendance limits.
Attendance is open to individuals who are US Citizens, US Permanent Residents, and Foreign Nationals.
Internal Selection Process
BU may register up to 8 people as an organization, defined at the discretion of the DARPA MXO Office Director.
Interested applicants should submit the following materials via InfoReady Review by: 8/24/2026
- Capability Summary draft (500 words max) providing a concise description of the core competencies of the entity (e.g., research group, department, unit, etc) you represent, the research area(s) relevant to the interests of the MXP Program Managers, and, as applicable, any accomplishments or work in this area within the past 5 years
- Capability Summaries are not proposals for new research topics, new project scoping, or solicitations for research funds from DARPA
- DARPA will not distribute the Capability Summaries beyond its organization
- Names of up to 3 DARPA MXO Program Managers with whom you’re requesting a sidebar meeting
As necessary, Federal Relations and the Office of Research will review requests and select the attendees.
Deadlines
Internal Materials Due: Monday, August 24, 2026 by 11:59 pm ET
Anticipated Notification Date: Friday, August 28, 2026
Registration Deadline: Sunday, October 18, 2026