DoW’s Office of Strategic Capital Launches National Security Fund Finance Program
Funding Opportunity Opens
On Aug. 20, 2026, the Department of War’s Office of Strategic Capital (OSC) published the formal application package for its inaugural National Security Fund Finance Program. This program aims to provide debt financing to qualified U.S. defense contractors and technology firms developing critical capabilities in areas such as advanced sensors, cybersecurity, hypersonics, and next-generation communications.
Program Details
- Program Name: National Security Fund Finance Program
- Administering Office: Office of Strategic Capital, Department of War
- Funding Vehicle: Low-interest loans and loan guarantees
- Eligible Applicants: U.S.-based small and medium defense enterprises
- Maximum Loan Amount: Up to $50 million per project
- Application Deadline: Oct. 15, 2026
- Website: war.gov/News/Releases/4579297
Strategic Impact
The Finance Program marks a strategic pivot toward leveraging public capital to accelerate innovation within the defense industrial base. By offering concessional financing, the OSC seeks to reduce barriers for early-stage firms, bolster supply chain resilience, and ensure the Department of War can field advanced systems at pace.
Alignment with National Defense Strategy
This initiative directly supports the 2026 National Defense Strategy’s emphasis on technology modernization and increased collaboration with the private sector. It complements existing DoW grants and research awards by providing follow-on funding to scale prototypes into production while preserving critical intellectual property rights within the United States.
Next Steps for Applicants
- Review the full application guidance available on the Department of War website.
- Prepare financial statements, technical whitepapers, and commercialization roadmaps.
- Submit questions via the OSC inquiry portal by Sept. 10, 2026.
- Attend the virtual industry session scheduled for Aug. 30, 2026.
- Finalize and submit completed applications by Oct. 15, 2026.
Contact Information
For detailed instructions and program updates, visit war.gov/OSC-Finance or email OSC@war.gov.