AI-driven Neurotechnology Platform for Hearing Enhancement

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency is seeking an AI-driven neurotechnology platform for hearing enhancement to restore and improve auditory capabilities. The agency requires the design and development of minimally invasive brain-interface devices that interact directly with the auditory cortex. This initiative aims to solve the limitations of traditional hearing aids by integrating a wearable sound modulation system for real-time hearing enhancement. The scope of work covers the creation of AI-based algorithms to decode user intent and optimize sound processing. The selected partner must integrate a closed-loop system combining sensing, processing, and stimulation, while conducting data collection, modeling, and algorithm training using human and clinical data. The project also requires pre-clinical testing and validation in animal models, clinical trials to demonstrate hearing restoration performance, and the delivery of a fully integrated prototype with technical documentation. Eligibility is strictly limited to onshore organizations based in the United States. The performing organization must conduct all work offsite at their own office premises. The agency is currently looking for proposals to determine the budget and has not disclosed specific evaluation criteria or key dates in the initial announcement.