SIF Marketplace FAQ

Written By Stacey Kessler

Last updated About 2 months ago

General Information

  1. What is SIF Marketplace?

    The Squadron Innovation Fund (SIF) Marketplace is a virtual platform designed to streamline and democratize the funding process for innovative initiatives within the Department of the Air Force (DAF).

  2. How do I create a VISION account?

    1. Create a Platform One account- you must use your .mil email when creating your Platform One account

    2. Set up your VISION profile

Process and Participation

  1. How do I submit an idea for SIF funding?

Submit your initiative through VISION under "Token Events." Once in the SIF Marketplace you will see the +Apply button. Once clicked you will be able to select any initiative that you are the lead team member or manager of. You can also provide additional comments that the Squadron Commanders will be able to view regarding how you will utilize the tokens for each initiative you submit.

  1. When can I submit an idea for SIF?

Ideas can be submitted starting 20 January 2026 until 1 May 2026.

  1. Who can submit ideas to the SIF?

Any Airman, civilian, or squadron commander can submit ideas to the SIF through the VISION platform.

  1. What happens if my idea doesn’t reach the minimum token threshold?

Ideas that don’t meet the threshold may not receive funding but can adjust the project for future FYs.

  1. What information will squadron commanders be able to see on my initiative?

Commanders will be able to view the comments you provided when applying, the minimum and maximum tokens you need to move your initiative forward as well as the synopsis, problem, and solution on your initiative.

  1. How do I cancel a SIF Marketplace application I submitted?

For all initiatives you have submitted you will have the stacked three dots in the top right corner. This will allow you to cancel an application. If you have been awarded tokens on your initiative they will be removed from the initiative and returned to the commander.

  1. Is there a way to look to see if my commander is already in VISION?

Any user can use the user directory feature within VISION to search for any user. You can search by email or first or last name.

Commanders’ Role

  1. How are squadron commanders involved in the process?

Commanders use their digital tokens to support initiatives and collaborate with other commanders to fund cross-cutting solutions. Squadron commanders will create their VISION account and then will receive their digital wallet to be able to award tokens.

  1. Can commanders pool their tokens with others?

Yes, commanders can pool tokens across units, wings, or MAJCOMs to fund larger-scale projects. Commanders can allocate tokens directly to any initiatives submitted to the SIF Marketplace they want to support at any point during the SIF funding window. This includes initiatives outside their squadron, group, wing, and MAJCOM.

  1. What happens to unused tokens at the end of the fiscal year?

Any unused tokens will be reallocated to initiatives with unmet funding needs before the fiscal year ends.

Access and Use of VISION

  1. How do I access VISION?

You can access VISION through Platform One. Ensure you have a valid DoD CAC and .mil email address to create your account. Click here to create a Platform One account. Then you can navigate to VISION.

  1. Can I access VISION from a non-government device?

Yes, you can access VISION from any secure, CAC-enabled device. Click this link if you are on a non-government device. Make sure your organization is updated in your profile to ensure proper token allocation.

Funding and Allocation

  1. How is the SIF budget allocated?

All of the SIF budget this year will be allocated within the SIF Marketplace.

  1. How are funds distributed once a project is approved?

Once an initiative meets its minimum funding threshold, it will be validated by the SIF Marketplace Innovation Working Group to ensure alignment with DAF priorities before funds are distributed to the innovator's unit. The funds are then transferred from HAF to the initiatives, with continuous tracking and support from AFWERX and HAF to ensure scalability and impact.

  1. How will I know if I have received tokens?

On your SIF Marketplace submission you will see a field that says “Total Tokens.” This will update as Squadron Commanders allocate tokens within SIF Marketplace so that you will be able to see the total number of tokens you have received.

Collaboration and Strategy

  1. How can I collaborate with others to enhance my initiative’s chances?

Engage with your squadron’s Spark Cell or other commanders to rally support, pool tokens, and boost visibility for your initiative. By forming partnerships with like-minded individuals and commanders, you can consolidate support, resources, and expertise, making it possible to push groundbreaking initiatives through the funding pipeline.

  1. What are the best practices for success in the SIF process?

Focus on clear communication, align your idea with mission objectives, and collaborate with others to maximize funding and support.

Support and Troubleshooting

  1. What if I encounter issues with submitting my idea on VISION?

Reach out to your squadron's Spark Cell or the VISION support team for assistance- support@mobilizevision.com

  1. How do I update my profile or organizational information in VISION?

Navigate to your account settings in VISION to update your profile, ensuring your organization details are correct for token allocation. In the top right corner of the VISION application you will see the person icon which will allow you to edit your organization.

  1. What should I do if I haven’t received my VISION verification email?

Check your spam folder or contact the VISION support team for assistance- support@mobilizevision.com