Answers That Move You Forward

From membership requirements to proposal guidance, find clear answers to the most common questions about joining and working within ATI’s innovation ecosystem.

Whether you’re a startup exploring federal R&D and prototyping for the first time or an established contractor looking to expand your impact, joining and competing in ATI-managed consortia can raise important questions. This page provides quick, clear answers across four key areas for innovators—membership, funding, compliance, and support. If you don’t see what you need, reach out—we’re here to help you get started.

Membership & Eligibility

Each consortia has their own requirements, but most consortia require:

• Technical alignment
• U.S. or Canadian ownership
• UEI and CAGE Code
• DD Form 2345 certification
• Regulatory and ethical compliance

Use the Collaboration Finder to identify the right consortium. Review its membership requirements and submit an application. Once approved, you can collaborate, team and participate in solicitations.

Yes. Many innovators are members of multiple ATI-managed consortia. Each consortium may have its own requirements or cost structure.

Looking for requirements for a particular consortia?

CHECK OUT OUR ATI COLLABORATIONS PAGE

DD Form 2345 certifies your organization’s eligibility to access restricted DoD technical data. It is required for participation in many defense-related consortia. ATI provides training and resources.

Proposal & Funding

Visit our Active & Upcoming R&D Opportunities page to explore solicitations. Filter by consortium, tech area, or deadline.

Consortia members gain:
• Easier access to OTA-funded federal R&D
• Collaboration with government
• Teaming opportunities
• Simplified contracting and execution

Contracts & Compliance

An OTA is a flexible federal contracting mechanism that allows faster, more agile collaboration. OTAs are widely used across ATI-managed consortia.

Innovator Support

Yes. ATI helps nontraditional contractors—including small businesses, startups, and academic institutions—navigate the federal space through onboarding, reduced barriers (via OTAs), and access to tools like the Innovation Resource Hub.

• Check consortium websites for direct program contacts
• Use our general contact form for broad inquiries or call us at 843-760-4500
• Visit the Doing Business with ATI page for onboarding help