Supplier Development Funding (SDF) Support

What is Supplier Development Funding?

The U.S. Navy’s Maritime Industrial Base (MIB) program invests heavily in strengthening the defense supplier network through Supplier Development Funding. This initiative provides financial support for projects that improve production capability, resolve bottlenecks, and build capacity across the U.S. maritime supply chain.

Funding Goals

SDF is designed to:

  • Boost supplier production throughput
  • Drive innovation and modernization
  • Address bottlenecks in critical processes
  • Build a resilient and agile supplier network
  • Meet growing demand for Navy shipbuilding (1+2 cadence)

Examples of Funded Initiatives

  • Doubling heat-treating capacity for large forgings
  • Establishing second sources for high-risk components
  • Enhancing inspection and NDT capabilities at fabrication sites
  • Automating key steps in fabrication, machining, or assembly

National Impact

Since 2023, over 850 projects across 36 states have been funded through SDF—each one playing a vital role in enhancing the Navy’s shipbuilding readiness. GES has been a trusted partner in helping suppliers across the country navigate the SDF process with confidence.

How We Help

Applying for SDF can be complex. That’s where we come in.

Proposal Strategy & Development
We tailor your application to highlight impact, alignment, and scalability.

Submission Support
From formatting to final delivery—we guide you through every step of the process.

Custom Playbooks
We equip your team with repeatable processes for future proposals and funding cycles.

Ongoing Advisory
We stay engaged throughout your project lifecycle to ensure alignment with goals and metrics.

Ready to Get Started?

We’ve helped companies cut through the noise, clarify their strategy, and secure SDF support that drives real transformation. Let’s talk about how we can do the same for you.