SAGE Fellowship Program

(Shared Awareness Through Guided Empowerment)

SAGE Fellows serve as the primary point of contact for civilian companies who have been awarded a Phase I SBIR contract. The DAF can be a daunting landscape to navigate and discover potential end-users for emerging technologies, especially in a finite time period of a Phase I SBIR. SAGE Fellows will expedite the Phase I end-user discovery process so that companies can focus on adapting their emerging technologies to the needs of the warfighter.

During this program, participants will assist businesses to navigate the DAF communications and facilitate potential customer discovery. After completing this fellowship, participants will have the skillset to effectively navigate SBIR resources and opportunities for their career fields. They will also have developed a deep understanding of cutting edge technologies, and built a strong foundation for managing small businesses.

24.7/E SAGE FELLOWSHIP

Apply for the AFWERX Ventures SAGE Fellowship, which takes place from January 6, 2025 through April 25, 2025.

The SAGE Fellowship is an entirely virtual volunteer opportunity, bringing together Airmen, Guardians, and Civilians who commit up to 20 hours per week to assist Open Topic Phase I small businesses in navigating the Department of the Air Force ecosystem and identifying potential customers for emerging dual-use technologies. SAGE Fellows work directly with small businesses to facilitate connections with stakeholders from Fellows’ extensive professional DAF networks.

IMPORTANT DATES

- Application Window Closes: November 15, 2024
- Cohort: January 6 – April 25, 2025

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

All AFSCs and career fields eligible
Open to all ranks, past participants have included E4-O5 and GS-5 to GS-15
Full time and part time assignments available
Applicants can be OCONUS during the duration of the program
A signed Memorandum of Agreement from your unit is required upon acceptance
Fellowship work will be conducted during duty hours as part of official duties
TDY opportunities during the program will be funded by AFWERX

FELLOW REQUIREMENTS

Ability to work virtually – Fellowship is 100% remote
Must be a Federal employee
Minimum weekly commitment for part time applicants is 20 hours per week
Be motivated and a self-starter with great communication skills and have a passion for innovation
Applicants will be responsible for securing Guard days, if applicable

Fellowship FAQs Email

The AFWERX Fellowship program is designed to broaden innovation perspectives and understanding for USSF and USAF military and civilian members. Each cohort relies on experiential learning and curated professional development to cultivate a deep understanding of AFWERX operations and industry trends. Throughout the program, fellows will engage with programs and projects that have DAF level impacts. Participants will learn how to build and utilize their own DAF innovation ecosystem to propel projects forward.

AFWERX is proud to offer several fellowship opportunities. Each experience is unique, and is designed to resonate with the wide range of skills that Airmen and Guardians will bring to the fellowships.