Improved Budget Clarity and Funding for Fiscal 2026
Congress enacted a fiscal 2026 budget that increased funding capacity and provided improved visibility for clients; key federal health agencies received funding increases versus fiscal 2025, which management expects to support organic growth and modernization-driven awards.
Sequential Margin Improvement and Cost Reduction Actions
Adjusted EBITDA margin improved sequentially to 9.5% in Q1 FY2026. Management implemented phased indirect cost reductions and initiatives (including AI/ML efficiency projects) during the quarter; costs and savings from these actions are reflected in the Q1 financials and further reductions are expected to be more evident in Q2.
Free Cash Flow Significantly Improved Year-Over-Year
Q1 used approximately $4.8 million of free cash flow versus a $12.1 million use in the prior-year period — an improvement of $7.3 million (≈60.3% reduction in cash usage), primarily due to better receivables collection and timing effects.
Deleveraging Plan and Compliance
Debt increased modestly during the quarter to $136.6 million due to seasonal working capital and shutdown timing, but the company remains ahead of its mandatory term repayment schedule and in full compliance with financial covenants. Management expects to convert ~50%–55% of FY2026 EBITDA generated to reduce debt by year-end.
Strategic Market Positioning and Technical Capabilities
DLH emphasizes strengths in C6ISR, cloud migration, zero trust cybersecurity, AI adoption, digital sandboxes and advanced data science — capabilities that management says position the company competitively for modernization-driven opportunities across defense, intelligence and federal health agencies.
Operational Visibility on Contract Transitions
Management reports improved cadence on CMOP transitions and expects CMOP wind-down/ramp completion near Q3 FY2026, enabling more precise cost scaling and resource planning.