The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), in collaboration with the Defense Acquisition University (DAU), has officially opened applications for the Fiscal Year 2026 Immersive Commercial Acquisition Program (ICAP) Fellowship. This prestigious 12-month program is designed to enhance the capabilities of acquisition professionals within the Department of Defense (DoD) by equipping them with the tools, knowledge, and hands-on experience needed to procure cutting-edge commercial technologies for national defense.
Application Deadline: July 31, 2025
Program Duration: 12 months
Offered by: Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) in partnership with Defense Acquisition University (DAU)
Now entering its fourth year, the ICAP Fellowship addresses one of the Department’s most urgent needs: accelerating the integration of commercial innovation into defense operations. Through a unique blend of virtual coursework and real-world immersion, the fellowship cultivates the next generation of acquisition leaders capable of bridging the divide between the government and the commercial technology sectors.
A Strategic Response to Modern Challenges
In an era where rapid innovation is reshaping the global landscape, the ICAP Fellowship is critical to ensuring the U.S. military maintains its competitive edge.
Fellowship Highlights
The ICAP Fellowship provides participants with a robust suite of training, mentorship, and professional development experiences. Key components include:
- Advanced Commercial Acquisition Training
Fellows engage in structured coursework focused on Other Transaction (OT) authority, a flexible contracting mechanism that supports rapid prototyping and the acquisition of non-traditional commercial technologies.- Hands-On Experience
Participants are embedded in DIU project teams, where they directly contribute to acquisition strategies, vendor engagement, and implementation of innovative solutions.- Mentorship from Industry and Government Leaders
Fellows benefit from direct guidance from experienced acquisition professionals and subject matter experts with deep knowledge of commercial markets and federal procurement processes.- Networking and Peer Learning
The program fosters professional relationships among fellows, senior leaders in defense acquisition, and influential members of the commercial tech sector.- Thought Leadership Development
Fellows are encouraged to document and share their experiences and insights through white papers, public presentations, and internal briefings to advance innovation culture within their home organizations.- Impact on the DoD Mission
By the end of the program, fellows are equipped to return to their respective commands and agencies with enhanced skills, strategic insight, and practical knowledge to lead change and deliver results.Application Process
Applications are being accepted until July 31, 2025. Interested candidates must apply online via the official DIU website.
To help prospective applicants better understand the program, current fellows will host a live, virtual Ask Me Anything (AMA) session on July 8, 2025, from 3:00–4:00 p.m. ET. Participants can register for the AMA and submit questions in advance via the DIU website.
Eligibility
The ICAP Fellowship is open to current acquisition professionals across the Department of Defense who are interested in expanding their expertise in commercial technology procurement. The program seeks individuals who are adaptable, forward-thinking, and committed to driving transformation within defense acquisition.
About DIU and DAU
The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) accelerates the adoption of commercial technology across the U.S. military to strengthen national security. Through innovative contracting mechanisms and partnerships, DIU connects the DoD with Silicon Valley and other innovation hubs across the country.
The Defense Acquisition University (DAU) is the DoD’s premier learning institution for acquisition professionals, providing education, training, and development programs tailored to support excellence in defense procurement.
Learn More
To access the application, register for the AMA session, or find additional program details, visit the Defense Innovation Unit’s official website under the “Work With Us” or “Latest” sections.