DARPA's MXO Opens Its Doors in Chicago

The Multi X Office wants pitches on quantum sensors, programmable materials, and tech that thrives in extreme environments.

By The Defense Desk

DARPA's Multi X Office is coming to Chicago this November — and it wants ideas from outside the usual defense circle. MXO Spark Tank runs Nov. 2–4, 2026, with an invitation-only Pitch Day on Nov. 2 where selected teams present concepts directly to program managers for potential funding. [1]

Launched in May 2026 as the next generation of DARPA's former Microsystems Technology Office, MXO builds upon the successes of its predecessor to expand beyond traditional microsystems and microscale technologies. [1]

To be considered for Pitch Day, applicants must submit a short abstract tied to one of those focus areas. The submission deadline is July 29, 2026, at 1 p.m. ET. Spark Tank registration opens Aug. 10 and closes Oct. 18. [1]

What's notable isn't just the event format — it's the signal. Inviting outside voices into a structured pitch process suggests the office is more interested in unexpected angles than in the familiar roster of defense contractors.

MXO is also launching a newsletter, Forward Dispatch, for researchers who want to track opportunities without waiting for the next Spark Tank. [1] The bar for entry is a short abstract. The ceiling, at least in theory, is new artificially created material properties. [1]