Offers must acknowledge receipt of this amendment prior to the hour and date specified in the solicitation or as amended, by one of the following methods: 

(a) By completing items 8 and 15, and returning 

or (c) By separate letter or electronic communication which includes a reference to the solicitation and amendment numbers. FAILURE OF YOUR ACKNOWLEDGMENT TO BE 

RECEIVED AT THE PLACE DESIGNATED FOR THE RECEIPT OF OFFERS PRIOR TO THE HOUR AND DATE SPECIFIED MAY RESULT IN REJECTION OF YOUR OFFER. If 

by virtue of this amendment you desire to change an offer already submitted, such change may be made by letter or electronic communication, provided each letter or electronic 

communication makes reference to the solicitation and this amendment, and is received prior to the opening hour and date specified.

E. IMPORTANT: Contractor is not is required to sign this document and return copies to the issuing office.

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT 1. CONTRACT ID CODE

3. EFFECTIVE DATE 4. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQUISITION NUMBER 5. PROJECT NUMBER (If applicable)

7. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than Item 6) CODE

STANDARD FORM 30 (REV. 11/2016)

Prescribed by GSA FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

FACILITY CODE

9B. DATED

04/16/2024

10A. MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT/ORDER NUMBER

10B. DATED (SEE ITEM 13)

11. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS

 The above numbered solicitation is amended as set forth in Item 14. The hour and date specified for receipt of Offers is extended. is not extended. 

12. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA (If required)

copies of the amendment; (b) By acknowledging receipt of this amendment on each copy of the offer submitted;

13. THIS ITEM APPLIES ONLY TO MODIFICATIONS OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS.

IT MODIFIES THE CONTRACT/ORDER NUMBER AS DESCRIBED IN ITEM 14.

CHECK ONE A. THIS CHANGE ORDER IS ISSUED PURSUANT TO: (Specify authority) THE CHANGES SET FORTH IN ITEM 14 ARE MADE IN THE CONTRACT ORDER

NUMBER IN ITEM 10A.

B. THE ABOVE NUMBERED CONTRACT/ORDER IS MODIFIED TO REFLECT THE ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES (such as changes in paying office,

appropriation data, etc.) SET FORTH IN ITEM 14, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF FAR 43.103(b).

C. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT IS ENTERED INTO PURSUANT TO AUTHORITY OF:

D. OTHER (Specify type of modification and authority)

Except as provided herein, all terms and conditions of the document referenced in Item 9A or 10A, as heretofore changed, remains unchanged and in full force and effect.

15C. DATE SIGNED

15A. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print)

16C. DATE SIGNED

16A. NAME AND TITLE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

PAGE OF PAGES

6. ISSUED BY CODE

8. NAME AND ADDRESS OF CONTRACTOR (Number, street, county, State and ZIP Code) (X)

CODE

15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR

(Signature of person authorized to sign)

Previous edition unusable

2. AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION NUMBER

0001

Kenneth E. Albright 

14. DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION (Organized by UCF section headings, including solicitation/contract subject matter where feasible.)

NASA hereby amends its NASA SBIR Program 2023 Ignite Phase I Solicitation. This amendment changes the Phase II 

proposal submission process. Phase II Proposal will/shall be submitted via Box instead of Prosam. Updated solicitation is 

provided as part of this admendment. 

NASA Shared Services Center (NSSC) 

Building 1111, Jerry Hlass Road 

Stennis Space, MS 39529-6000

 9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NUMBER

80NSSC23SBIRIGNITE

04/16/2024

16B. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

(Sign

signature of Contracting Offic

1

4

X
National Aeronautics and Space 

Administration (NASA)

Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) 

SBIR Ignite Solicitation

Fiscal Year 2023

Complete Phase I Proposal Package Due DateandTime: 

September 21st, 2023 by 5:00 p.m. ET

Complete Phase II Proposal Package Due DateandTime: 

120th day of Phase I Period of Performance by 5:00 p.m. ET
Welcome to the SBIRIgnite Solicitation ...................................................................................... 6

1. Program Description............................................................................................................... 7

1.1 Executive Summary.................................................................................................................................................... 7

1.2 Legislative Authority and Background....................................................................................................................... 7

1.2.1 Due Diligence Program to Assess Security Risks............................................................................................... 7

1.3 Program Management & Administration................................................................................................................. 8

1.4 Availability of Funds.................................................................................................................................................... 8

1.5 Three-Phase Program.................................................................................................................................................8

1.6 Eligibility Requirements...............................................................................................................................................9

1.6.1 Small Business Concern(SBC) Certification.......................................................................................................9

1.6.2 SBC Size.................................................................................................................................................................9

1.6.3 SBIR Restrictions on Level of Small Business Participation...............................................................................9

1.6.4 Place of Performance and American-made Products and Equipment.............................................................9

1.6.5 Principal Investigator (PI) Employment Requirement....................................................................................10

1.6.5 Novated/Successor in Interest/Revised Funding Agreements......................................................................10

1.6.6 Restrictions on Venture-Capital-Owned Businesses......................................................................................10

1.6.7 Joint Ventures or Limited Partnerships...........................................................................................................11

1.6.8 Required Benchmark Transition Rate.............................................................................................................11

1.7 NASA Technology Available (TAV) for SBIR Use.....................................................................................................11

1.7.1 Use of NASA Software......................................................................................................................................11

1.7.2 Use of NASA Patent..........................................................................................................................................11

1.8 I-CorpsTM....................................................................................................................................................................12

1.9 Technical and Business Assistance (TABA).............................................................................................................12

1.10 Small Business Administration (SBA) Applicant Resources..................................................................................13

1.11 NASA Mentor-Protégé Program (MPP).................................................................................................................13

1.12 Fraud, Waste and Abuse andFalse Statements...................................................................................................13

1.13 NASA Procurement Ombudsman Program...........................................................................................................14

1.14 Questions About This Solicitation and Means of Contacting NASASBIR Program............................................14

1.15 Definitions...............................................................................................................................................................15

2. Certifications and Other Proposal Requirements ...................................................................16

2.1 Small Business Administration (SBA) Company Registry .......................................................................................16

2.2 System for Award Management (SAM) Registration.............................................................................................16

2.3 Certifications............................................................................................................................................................16
2.3.1 Disclosures of Foreign Affiliation or Relationships toForeign Countries......................................................17

2.4 Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and NASA Certifications and Clauses........................................................18

2.5 SoftwareDevelopment Standards..........................................................................................................................18

2.6 Human and/or Animal Subject................................................................................................................................18

2.7 HSPD-12.....................................................................................................................................................................18

3. Proposal Preparation Instructions and Requirements............................................................19

3.1 Multiple Proposal Submissions (Not Allowed)........................................................................................................19

3.2 Understanding the Patent Landscape.....................................................................................................................19

3.3 Proprietary Information in the Proposal Submission.............................................................................................19

3.4 Release of CertainProposal Information................................................................................................................19

3.5 Requirements to Submit a Complete Phase I Proposal Package...........................................................................19

3.5.1 General Requirements......................................................................................................................................19

3.5.2 Format Requirements.......................................................................................................................................20

3.5.3 Complete Proposal Package.............................................................................................................................20

3.6 Requirements to Submit a Complete Phase II Proposal Package..........................................................................28

3.6.1 General Requirements......................................................................................................................................28

3.6.2 Format Requirements.......................................................................................................................................28

3.6.3 Complete Phase II Proposal Package..............................................................................................................29

4. Method of Selection and Evaluation Criteria ..........................................................................37

4.1 Phase I Evaluation Process andEvaluation Criteria................................................................................................37

4.1.1 Administrative Review.....................................................................................................................................37

4.1.2 Proposal Responsiveness..................................................................................................................................37

4.1.3 Evaluation Criteria............................................................................................................................................37

4.1.4 Scoring of Factors and Weighting to Determine the Most Highly Rated Proposals.....................................38

4.1.5 Price Evaluation.................................................................................................................................................39

4.1.6 Panel Review.....................................................................................................................................................39

4.1.7 Selection............................................................................................................................................................39

4.2 Phase II Evaluation Process andEvaluation Criteria...............................................................................................40

4.2.1 Administrative Review.....................................................................................................................................40

4.2.2 Evaluation Criteria............................................................................................................................................40

4.2.3 Scoring of Factors and Weighting to Determine the Most Highly Rated Proposals.....................................41

4.2.4 Price Evaluation.................................................................................................................................................41

4.2.5 Panel Review.....................................................................................................................................................41

4.2.6 Selection............................................................................................................................................................42

4.3.1 Denial of Awards..............................................................................................................................................42
4.3 Technical and Business Assistance (TABA).............................................................................................................43

4.4. Access to Proprietary Data by Non-NASA Personnel............................................................................................43

4.4.1 Non-NASA Reviewers........................................................................................................................................43

4.4.2 Non-NASA Access to Confidential Business Information...............................................................................43

4.5 Notification and Feedback to Offerors....................................................................................................................43

4.5.1 Providing Feedback...........................................................................................................................................44

5. Considerations.......................................................................................................................45

5.1 Requirement for Contracting..................................................................................................................................45

5.2 Awards.......................................................................................................................................................................46

5.2.1 Anticipated number of Awards.......................................................................................................................46

5.2.2 Award Conditions..............................................................................................................................................46

5.2.3 Type of Contract...............................................................................................................................................46

5.2.4 [Reserved]..........................................................................................................................................................46

5.3 Reporting and Required Deliverables......................................................................................................................47

5.4 Payment Schedule....................................................................................................................................................47

5.5 Profit or Fee................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 48

5.6 Cost Sharing..............................................................................................................................................................48

5.7 Rights in Data Developed Under SBIRFunding Agreements.................................................................................48

5.8 Copyrights.................................................................................................................................................................48

5.9 Invention Reporting, Election of Title, Patent Application Filing,and Patents....................................................48

5.10 Export Control.........................................................................................................................................................48

5.11 Government-Furnished and Contractor-Acquired Property ...............................................................................49

5.12 Essentially Equivalent Awards andPrior Work.....................................................................................................49

5.13 Additional Information...........................................................................................................................................49

5.13.1 Precedence of Contract Over this Solicitation..............................................................................................49

5.13.2 Evidence of Contractor Responsibility...........................................................................................................49

5.14 Use of Government Resources.............................................................................................................................. 49

5.15 Agency Recovery Authority and Ongoing Reporting............................................................................................50

6. Submission of Proposals ......................................................................................................51

6.1 How to Submit Your Proposal Package...................................................................................................................51

6.1.1 Electronic Submission Requirements.............................................................................................................51

6.1.2 Deadlines for Submitting a Complete Proposal Package...............................................................................51

6.1.3 Complete ProposalPackage Submission.........................................................................................................52

6.1.4 Acknowledgment of Receipt of a CompleteProposal Package.....................................................................53

6.1.5 Withdrawal of Complete Proposal Packages..................................................................................................53
6.1.6 Service of Protests............................................................................................................................................53

7. Scientific and Technical Information Sources ........................................................................54

7.1 NASA Organizational andProgrammatic Information............................................................................................54

7.2 United States Small BusinessAdministration (SBA)...............................................................................................54

7.3 National Technical Information Service..................................................................................................................55

8. Submission Forms .................................................................................................................56

8.1 SBIR Phase I Checklist...............................................................................................................................................56

8.2 SBIR Phase II Checklist..............................................................................................................................................57

9. Research Topics for the SBIRIgnite Solicitation....................................................................58

Appendices................................................................................................................................62

Appendix A: Technology Readiness Level (TRL) Descriptions......................................................................................62

Appendix B: SBIR and the Technology Taxonomy ........................................................................................................65

Appendix C: List of NASA SBIR Phase I Clauses, Regulations and Certifications.........................................................66
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 1: ProgramDescription

6

Welcome to the SBIR Ignite Solicitation

The SBIR Ignite solicitation is a limited pilot program focused on technologies with a strong commercial pull. There 

are several differences from the traditional NASA annual SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) and STTR 

(Small Business Technology Transfer) solicitations.

The limited number of topic areas of interest for this solicitation have been specifically selected for their 

commercial relevance. Offerors must demonstrate their understanding of the market and provide a strong 

commercialization plan to be considered responsive.

Offerors familiar with the traditional NASA annual SBIR and STTR solicitations will notice significant differences in 

Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions and Requirements; Section 4: Method of Selection and Evaluation 

Criteria; Section 6: Submission of Proposals; and Section 8: Submission Forms. Be sure to read each of these 

sections carefully to ensure your proposal makes it through administrative screening to be considered.

Proposalsubmissionwilloccurthrough theProposal Submissions andAward ManagementSystem(ProSAMS) 

rather than the standard Electronic Handbook (EHB) platform used for the traditional NASA SBIR Phase I or II 

solicitation.

The technical proposal will be separated into 2 distinct parts:

• A white paper

• A slide deck

Firms may be invited to present to a panel made up of NASA subject matter experts and/or 3rd party reviewers.

Phase II proposals will be due 120 days from the start of the Phase I period of performance and will be submitted 

via Box. Firms will be notified of the exact date when they receive their Phase I award. The goal is to reduce the 

time between the end of Phase I and the beginning of the Phase II periods of performance.

The SBIR Ignite program aims to accelerate the advancement of technology to market. Firms are encouraged to 

propose the shortest Phase II period of performance that is required to reach their proposed milestones and not to 

default to the maximum 24-month period of performance. Note: The Phase I period of performance is expected to 

be the standard 6 months.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 1: ProgramDescription

7

1. Program Description

1.1 Executive Summary

The SBIR Ignite Solicitation is a limited pilot program focused on technologies with a strong commercial pull. The 

topic areas of interest for this solicitation have been specifically selected for their commercial relevance. Offerors 

must demonstrate their understanding of the market and provide a strong plan for commercialization of the 

technology to be competitive for award. Companies with a significant history of operations and/or R&D funding 

will be evaluated based on their track record of prior technology development and commercialization and whether 

SBIR funding will be catalytic to their further development.

NASA requests Small Business Concerns (SBCs) to submit proposals for the SBIR Ignite solicitation during fiscal year 

(FY) 2023. This solicitation includes instructions for SBCs to submit complete proposal packages as well as 

background information, eligibility and certification requirements, evaluation criteria, and contracting 

considerations. Details on the research topic areas appear in section 9. Communication between NASA and the 

firm is through email during the solicitation period. The SBIR Ignite proposal submission period begins on August 

1st, 2023, and ends at 5 p.m. Eastern Time on September 21st, 2023.

The NASA SBIR program focuses on transforming scientific discovery into products and services through 

innovations that have the potential for infusion into NASA programs and missions, the potential for 

commercialization into commercial markets, and societal benefits. Unlike fundamental research, the NASA SBIR 

program supports small businesses in the creation of innovative, disruptive technologies and enables the 

application of research advancements from concept to market. Unlike most investors, the NASA SBIR program 

provides non-dilutive funding at the earliest stages of company and technology development.

1.2 Legislative Authority and Background

The SBIR and STTR Extension Act of 2022 (Pub. L. 117-183.) amended the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 638) to 

extend the SBIR/STTR programs until September 30, 2025. Policy is provided by the Small Business Administration 

(SBA) through the combined SBIR and STTR programs’ Policy Directive. The main purpose of the legislation is to 

stimulate technological innovation in the Federal Research/Research and Development (R/R&D) sector and 

increase private sector commercialization in both the SBIR and STTR programs. Accordingly, the NASA SBIR 

program is in a unique position to meet both goals by transforming scientific discovery and innovation to be used 

in NASA programs and missions as well as emphasizing private sector commercialization.

The SBIR program is Congressionally mandated and intended to support scientific excellence and technological 

innovation through the investment of federal research funds to build a strong national economy by stimulating 

technological innovation in the private sector; strengthening the role of small businesses in meeting federal 

research and development needs; increasing the commercial application of federally supported research results; 

and fostering and encouraging participation by socially and economically disadvantaged and women-owned small 

businesses.

1.2.1 Due Diligence Program to Assess Security Risks

The SBIR and STTR Extension Act of 2022 requires NASA, in coordination with the SBA,to establish and implement 

a due diligence program to assess security risks presented by offerors seeking a Federally funded award. As noted 

above, the NASA SBIR/STTR Programs follow the policies and practices of the SBA SBIR/STTR PolicyDirective.

Revisions to the Policy Directive are in effect as of May 3, 2023, and the Federal Register Notice is available at: 

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/04/03/2023-06870/small-business-innovationresearchprogram-and-small-business-technology-transfer-program-policy. This revision is incorporated into this
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 1: ProgramDescription

8

solicitation, including Appendix III, “Disclosures of Foreign Affiliations or Relationships to Foreign Countries” as 

reflected in the Disclosures of Foreign Affiliations or Relationships to Foreign Countries form (see section 2.3.1).

In accordance with Section 4 of the SBIR and STTR Extension Act of 2022, NASA will review all proposals submitted 

in response to this solicitation to assess security risks presented by offerors seeking an SBIR award. NASA will use 

information provided by the offeror in response to the Disclosures of Foreign Affiliations or Relationships to 

Foreign Countries form, the proposal, and open-source analysis and analytical tools to conduct a risk-based due 

diligence review on the cybersecurity practices, patent analysis, employee analysis, and foreign ownership of a 

small business concern, including the financial ties and obligations (which shall include surety, equity, and debt 

obligations) of the offeror and its employees to a foreign country, foreign person, or foreign entity. NASA will also 

assess proposals and awards for the nondisclosures of the information set forth in 15 U.S.C. § 638(o)(17).

1.3 Program Management & Administration

NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) provides overall policy direction for the implementation of 

the NASA SBIR program. The NASA SBIR/STTR Program Management Office (PMO), hosted at the NASA Ames 

Research Center (ARC), operates the program in conjunction with NASA mission directorates and field centers. For 

additional information on the mission directorates, see section 7.1. Additionally, the NASA Shared Services Center 

(NSSC) provides the overall procurement management for the programs.

1.4 Availability of Funds

There is no commitment by NASA to fund any proposal or to make a specific number of awards and NASA may 

elect to make several or no awards in any specific research topic. The number of awards will be based on the level 

of appropriated funding provided to the program. Currently, it is anticipated that the SBIR Ignite Phase I proposals 

will be selected in December 2023 for the negotiation of firm-fixed-price contracts. Awarded contracts will have a 

period of performance not to exceed six (6) months.

Due to the limited pilot nature of this solicitation, NASA will not accept more than one (1) complete proposal 

package from any one firm to ensure the broadest participation of the small business community.

This solicitation will be released prior to the passage of an appropriations act for FY 2024. Enactment of continuing 

resolutions or an appropriations act may affect the availability or level of funding for this program and may delay 

the award and start dates of Phase I contracts or impact the number of awards or maximum contract value levels.

1.5 Three-Phase Program

The standard three phases of the NASA SBIR/STTR program are described in detail on the NASA SBIR/STTR website: 

https://sbir.nasa.gov/content/nasa-sbirsttr-basics.

Phase I

Phase I projects should demonstrate the technical feasibility of the proposed innovation and the potential for 

infusion within a NASA program or mission and/or use in the commercial market. The maximum value of a 

Phase I award is $150,000 and the period of performance is 6 months.

Phase II

Phase II proposals continue the R&D developed under Phase I to bring the innovation closer to infusion into a 

NASA program or mission and/or commercialization of the innovation. Only Phase I awardees are eligible to
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 1: ProgramDescription

9

submit a Phase II proposal at the conclusion of the Phase I contract. The maximum value of a Phase II award is

$850,000 and the maximum period of performance is 24 months.

Phase III

Phase III is the commercialization of innovative technologies, products, and services resulting from either a 

Phase I or Phase II contract. This includes further development of technologies for transition into NASA 

programs, other Government agencies, or the private sector. Phase III contracts are funded from sources other 

than the SBIR and STTR programs and may be awarded without further competition. Please refer to 

https://sbir.nasa.gov/content/post-phase-ii-initiatives#Phase-III for Phase III information.

Post-Phase II Opportunities for Continued Technology Development and Transition

NASA recognizes that Phase I and II awards may not be sufficient in either dollars or time for the firm to 

complete the total R/R&D and commercialization activities required to make the project ready for infusion or 

commercialization. Therefore, NASA has several initiatives for supporting its SBCs beyond their Phase I and 

Phase II awards. Firms are encouraged to line up funding commitments from investors early in the process to 

position themselves for NASA SBIR’s Phase II-E and Civilian Commercialization Readiness Pilot Program (CCRPP) 

matched funding opportunities. Please refer to https://sbir.nasa.gov/content/post-phase-ii-initiatives for the 

most up-to-date information on eligibility, application deadlines, and matching requirements.

1.6 Eligibility Requirements

For additional information on eligibility requirements, please visit https://www.sbir.gov/about.

1.6.1 Small Business Concern (SBC) Certification

Each Phase I and Phase II offeror must submit a certification stating that it meets the size, ownership, and other 

requirements of the SBIR program at the time of a completed proposal package submission, award, and at any 

other time set forth in the regulations at 13 CFR §§ 121.701-121.705. Socially and economically disadvantaged, and 

women-owned SBCs are particularly encouraged to propose.

1.6.2 SBC Size

A Phase I offeror, combined with its affiliates, must not have more than 500 employees.

1.6.3 SBIR Restrictions on Level of Small Business Participation

The offeror must be the primary performer of the proposed research effort. To be awarded an SBIR Phase I 

contract, a minimum of two-thirds or 67% of the research or analytical effort must be carried out by the offeror 

during Phase I; correspondingly, a maximum of one-third or 33% of the effort may be performed by an outside 

party such as consultants or subcontractors. To be awarded an SBIR Phase II contract, a maximum of one-half or 

50% of the research or analytical effort may be performed by an outside party such as consultants or 

subcontractors. Occasionally, deviations from these SBIR requirements may occur. Any deviations must be 

approved in writing by the Contracting Officer after consultation with the agency SBIR Program Manager.

1.6.4 Place of Performance and American-made Products andEquipment

All work shall be performed in the United States. When purchasing equipment or a product under the SBIR 

Funding Agreement, purchase only American-made items whenever possible. However, based on a rare and 

unique circumstance (for example, if a supply, material, or other item or project requirement is not available in the 

United States), NASA may allow a particular portion of the research or work to be performed or obtained in a 

country outside of the United States.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 1: ProgramDescription

10

Completed proposal packages must clearly indicate if any work will be performed outside the United States, 

including subcontractor performance, and justification must be provided by downloading, completing, and 

uploading the “Request to Use a Foreign Vendor/Purchase of Items from a Foreign Vendor” form as directed in 

ProSAMS. ProSAMS requires firm registration and login. To access ProSAMS, go to https://prosams.nasa.gov/.

For Phase II, submission of the form will be via Box. Prior to award, approval by the Contracting Officer for such 

specific condition(s) must be in writing.

Note: NASA will not approve purchases from or work with countries that appear on the Designated Country list. 

For reference, please see https://www.nasa.gov/oiir/export-control.

1.6.5 Principal Investigator (PI) Employment Requirement

Requirements SBIR

Primary Employment PI shall be primarily employed with the SBC

Employment Certification For both Phase I and Phase II, the primary employment of the Principal 

Investigator (PI) must be with the SBC at the time of award and during 

the conduct of the proposed project. Primary employment means that 

more than one-half of the PI’s employment time is spent in the employ

of the SBC and precludes full-time employment with another 

organization.

Co-PIs Not allowed

Deviation Request Any deviation requests will be reviewed during the negotiation of the

award and either approved or declined before the final award by the 

Funding Agreement officer

Misrepresentation of Qualifications Shall result in rejection of the completed proposal package or 

termination of the contract

Substitution of PIs An SBC may replace the PI on an SBIR/STTR Phase I or Phase II award, 

subject to approval in writing by the Contracting Officer.

Note: NASA considers full-time employment to include salaried employees and employees who regularly work a 

40-hour workweek. NASA considers a 19.9-hour or more workweek elsewhere to conflict with this rule. In rare 

occasions, minor deviations from this requirement may be necessary; however, any minor deviation must be 

approved in writing prior to the award by the Contracting Officer after consultation with the NASA SBIR/STTR 

Program Manager.

1.6.5 Novated/Successor in Interest/Revised Funding Agreements

An SBIR awardee may include, and SBIR work may be performed by,those identified via a “novated” or “successor 

in interest” or similarly revised funding agreement. In addition, an SBIR awardee may include those that have 

merely reorganized with the same key staff, regardless of whether they have been assigned a different tax 

identification number. In cases where there is a novation or similarly revised funding agreement, agencies may 

require the original awardee torelinquishits rights andinterests inanSBIR project in favor of another applicant as 

a condition for that applicant's eligibility to participate in the programs for that project.

1.6.6 Restrictions on Venture-Capital-Owned Businesses

At the current time, small businesses owned in majority part by multiple venture capital operating companies, 

hedge funds, or private equity firms are not eligible to submit a proposal package under this NASA SBIR Ignite 

solicitation.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 1: ProgramDescription

11

1.6.7 Joint Ventures or Limited Partnerships

Both joint ventures and limited partnerships are permitted, provided the entity created qualifies as an SBC in 

accordance with the definition of an SBC here: http://sbir.nasa.gov/content/nasa-sbirsttr-program-definitions. A 

statement of how the workload will be distributed, managed, and charged must be included in the completed 

proposal package. See definitions for Joint Ventures along with examples at 13 CFR 121.103(h).

A copy or comprehensive summary ofthe joint venture agreement or partnership agreementshould be included 

when uploading the completed proposal package.

1.6.8 Required Benchmark TransitionRate

On June 1 of each year, the SBA assesses SBIR awardees using SBIR award information across all Federal agencies 

reported on https://www.sbir.gov/to determine if they meet the benchmark transition requirements. Companies 

will be notified by the SBA if they failed to meet the benchmark and can find their status at any time on 

https://www.sbir.gov/. More information on the transition rate requirements is available at 

https://www.sbir.gov/faqs/performance-benchmarks.

1.7 NASA Technology Available (TAV) for SBIRUse

Offerors have the option of using technology developed by NASA (Technology Available (TAV)) in their proposal. 

Whether or not a firm proposes the use of a NASA patent or computer software within its proposed effort will not in 

any way be a factor in the selection for the award.

While NASA scientists and engineers conduct breakthrough research that leads to innovations, the range of NASA's 

efforts does not extend to commercial product development. Additional work is often necessary to exploit these 

NASA technologies for either infusion or commercial viability and likely requires innovation on behalf of the private 

sector. NASA provides these technologies "as is" and makes no representation or guarantee that additional effort 

will result in infusion or commercial viability.

1.7.1 Use of NASA Software

NASA has over 1,000 available software applications/tools listed in its Software Catalog

(https://software.nasa.gov). If an offeror intends to use NASA software, a Software Usage Agreement (SUA), on a 

nonexclusive, royalty-free basis, is necessary, and the clause at 48 C.F.R. 1852.227-88, Government-Furnished 

Computer Software and Related Technical Data will apply to the contract. The SUA shall be requested from the 

appropriate NASA Center Software Release Authority (SRA), after contract award.

1.7.2 Use of NASA Patent

NASA has over 1,400 patents available for licensing in its portfolio (https://technology.nasa.gov/patents). Offerors 

submitting a proposal that includes the use of a NASA patent must apply for a nonexclusive, royalty-free evaluation 

license through https://technology.nasa.gov/license. The Automated Licensing System (ATLAS) will direct them to 

finalize their license with the appropriate field center technology transfer office. The completed evaluation license 

application must be provided with the proposal package.

The grant of a nonexclusive evaluation license will be set forth in the successful offeror’s SBIR contract and will 

automatically terminate at the end of the SBIR contract. License applications will be treated in accordance with 

Federal patent licensing regulations as provided in 37 CFR Part 404. In addition to an evaluation license, if the 

proposed work includes the making, using, or selling of products or services incorporating a NASA patent, 

successful awardees will be given the opportunity to negotiate a nonexclusive commercialization license or, if
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 1: ProgramDescription

12

available, an exclusive commercialization license to the NASA patent. Commercialization licenses are also provided 

in accordance with 37 CFR Part 404.

An SBIR awardee that has been granted a nonexclusive, royalty-free evaluation license to use a NASA patent may, 

if available and on a noninterference basis, also have access to NASA personnel knowledgeable about the NASA 

patent. Licensing Executives at the appropriate NASA center can assist awardees requesting information about a 

patent and, if available and ona noninterference basis, provide access to the inventor orsurrogate for the purpose 

of knowledgetransfer.Note: Access to theinventorfor thepurposeofknowledge transferwill require the requestor 

to enter an agreement and the awardee may be required to reimburse NASA. For Phase I proposals, this can be a 

time-consuming process and is not recommended.

1.8 I-CorpsTM

NASA has partnered with the National Science Foundation (NSF) to allow Phase I awardees the opportunity to 

participate in the NSF Innovation Corps (I-CorpsTM) program. Phase I awardees are encouraged to participate in this 

training which is designed to lower the market risk inherent in bringing a product or innovation to market, thereby 

improving the chances for a viable business. The NASA I-Corps program enables small businesses, including startup 

firms, to increase the odds of accelerating the process of developing their SBIR technologies into a repeatable and 

scalable business model. The program accomplishes this by putting the firms through a version of the Lean 

Launchpad/I-Corps process, which includes:

• Developing their business model hypotheses using the Business Model Canvas.

• Testing those hypotheses through the Customer Development Interview process.

The intended results of I-Corps are to enable firms to conduct customer discovery to learn their customers' needs, 

to obtain abetter understanding oftheir company's value propositionas itrelates tothosecustomer needs, and to 

develop an outline of a business plan for moving forward. For more information on the NASA I-Corps program, see 

https://sbir.nasa.gov/content/I-Corps.

Offerors who are selected for Phase I contract negotiations will be provided the opportunity to participate in the 

NASA SBIR/STTR I-Corps program as indicated in Section 3.5.3.10. I-Corps awards will be made separately from the 

Phase I contract as a training grant. NASA will conduct an abbreviated competition for I-Corps after Phase I 

Offerors are selected for Phase I SBIR contracts. The amount of funding is up to $10,000 for the shortened I-Corps 

version for SBIR firms.

1.9 Technical and Business Assistance (TABA)

The Small Business Act 15 U.S.C. 631, Section 9 (q) Discretionary Technical and Business Assistance permits SBIR 

Phase I and II awardees to enter into agreements with one or more vendors to provide Technical and Business 

Assistance (TABA). TABA allows an additional supplement to the award ($6,500 for Phase I and $50,000 for Phase

II) and is aimed atimproving thecommercialization success ofSBIRawardees.TABA may be obtained from entities 

such as public or private organizations, including an entity established or funded by a U.S. state that facilitates or 

accelerates the commercialization of technologies or assists in the creation and growth of private enterprises that 

are commercializing the technology.

In accordance with the Small Business Act, NASA may authorize the recipient of an SBIR award to purchase 

technical and business assistance services through one or more outside vendors. These services may, as 

determined appropriate, include access to a network of non-NASA scientists and engineers engaged in a wide 

range of technologies, assistance with product sales, intellectual property protections, market research, market
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 1: ProgramDescription

13

validation, and development of regulatory plans and manufacturing plans, or access to technical and business 

literature available through online databases, for the purpose of assisting such concerns in:

1. Making better technical decisions concerning such projects;

2. Solving technical problems that arise during the conduct of suchprojects;

3. Minimizing technical risks associated with such projects; or

4. Commercializingnewcommercialproductsandprocessesresulting fromsuchprojects,including intellectual 

property protections.

For information on how to request TABA, please see sections 3.5.3.8 or 3.6.3.7, Request for Use of Technical and 

Business Assistance Funds. Technical and business assistance does not count towards the maximum award amount 

of your contract. Approval of technical and business assistance is not guaranteed and is subject to review by the 

Contracting Officer and the SBIR/STTR Program Management Office. A description of any technical and business 

assistance obtained under this section and the benefits and results of the technical or business assistance provided 

will be a required deliverable of your contract.

1.10 Small Business Administration (SBA) ApplicantResources

The SBA oversees the Federal SBIR and STTR programs. The SBA has resources that small businesses can take 

advantage of in learning about each of the programs and obtaining help in developing a complete proposal 

package to submit to a Federal SBIR/STTR program. Offerors are encouraged to review the information that is 

provided at the following links: https://www.sbir.gov/, https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance, and 

https://www.sbir.gov/resources.

1.11 NASA Mentor-Protégé Program (MPP)

The purpose of the NASA Mentor-Protégé Program (MPP) is to provide incentives to NASA contractors, performing 

under at least one active approved subcontracting plan negotiated with NASA, to assist protégés in enhancing their 

capabilities to satisfy NASA and other contract and subcontract requirements. The NASA MPP established under 

the authority of Title 42, United States Code (U.S.C.) 2473(c)(1) and managed by the Office of Small Business 

Programs (OSBP), includes an Award Fee Pilot Program. Under the Award Fee Pilot Program, a mentor is eligible to 

receive an award fee at the end of the agreement period based upon the mentor’s performance of providing 

developmental assistance to an active SBIR/STTR Phase II contractor in a NASA Mentor-Protégé agreement (MPA). 

For more information on the Mentor-Protégé Program, please visit https://www.nasa.gov/osbp/mentor-protegeprogram.

1.12 Fraud, Waste and Abuse and False Statements

Fraud is described as “any false representation about a material fact or any intentional deception designed to 

deprive the United States unlawfully of something of value or to secure from the United States a benefit, privilege, 

allowance, or consideration to which an individual or business is not entitled.”

Knowingly and willfully making any false, fictitious, or fraudulent statements or representations may be a felony 

under the Federal Criminal False Statement Act (18 U.S.C., section 1001), punishable by a fine and imprisonment 

of up to 5 years in prison. The Office of the Inspector General (OIG) has full access to all proposal packages 

submitted to NASA.

NASA reserves the right to decline any proposal packages that include plagiarism and false statements.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 1: ProgramDescription

14

Pursuant to NASA policy, any company representative who observes a crime, fraud, waste, abuse, or 

mismanagement or receives an allegation of a crime, fraud, waste, abuse, or mismanagement from a Federal 

employee, contractor, grantee, grantee employee, or any other source will report such observation or allegation to 

the OIG. NASA contractor employees and other individuals are also encouraged to report crime, fraud, waste, and 

mismanagement in NASA's programs to the OIG. The OIG offers several ways to report a complaint:

NASA OIG Hotline: 1-800-424-9183 (TDD: 1-800-535-8134)

NASA OIG Cyber Hotline: https://oig.nasa.gov/cyberhotline.html

Or by mail:

NASA Office of Inspector General

P.O. Box 23089 

L'Enfant Plaza Station 

Washington, DC 20026

1.13 NASA Procurement Ombudsman Program

The NASA Procurement Ombudsman Program is available under this solicitation as a procedure for addressing 

concerns and disagreements concerning the terms of the solicitation, the processes used for the evaluation of 

complete proposal packages, or any other aspect of the SBIR procurement. The clause at NASA Federal Acquisition 

Regulation (FAR) Supplement (NFS) 1852.215-84 (“Ombudsman”) is incorporated into this solicitation.

The cognizant ombudsman is:

Marvin Horne, Procurement Ombudsman 

Office of Procurement

NASA Headquarters 

Washington, DC 20546-0001

Telephone: 202-358-4483

Email: nhq-dl-op-comp-advocate-vendor-engagement@mail.nasa.gov

Offerors are advised that, in accordance with NFS 1852.215-84, the ombudsman does not participate in any way 

with the evaluation of complete proposal packages, the source selection process, or the adjudication of formal 

contract disputes. Therefore, before consulting with the ombudsman, Offerors must first address their concerns, 

issues, disagreements, and/or recommendations to the Contracting Officer for resolution. Offerors are further 

advised that the process set forth in this solicitation provision (and described at NFS 1852.215-84) does not 

augment their right to file a bid protest or otherwise toll or elongate the period in which to timely file such a 

protest.

1.14 Questions About This Solicitation and Means of Contacting NASA SBIR Program

To ensure fairness, questions relating to the intent and/or content of research topics in this solicitation cannot be 

addressed during the open solicitation period. Only questions requesting clarification of proposal package 

instructions and administrative matters will be addressed. The cutoff date and time for receipt of procurementrelated questions for this SBIR Ignite solicitation is September 14th, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. ET.

Offerors that have questions requesting clarification of proposal package instructions and administrative matters 

should refer to the NASA SBIR/STTR website or contact the NASA SBIR/STTR help desk.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 1: ProgramDescription

15

1. NASA SBIR/STTR Website: https://sbir.nasa.gov/

2. HelpDesk: TheNASASBIR/STTR helpdesk can answer any questions regarding clarificationof proposal 

package instructions and any administrative matters. The help desk may be contacted by:

a. Email: agency-sbir@mail.nasa.gov

b. The requestormust providethe name andtelephonenumber ofthe persontocontact,the organization 

name and address, and the specific questions or requests.

1.15 Definitions

A comprehensive list of definitions related to the programs is available at https://sbir.nasa.gov/content/nasasbirsttr-program-definitions. These definitions include those from the combined SBIR/STTR policy directives as well 

as terms specific to NASA. Offerors are strongly encouraged to review these prior to submitting a complete 

proposal package.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 2: Certifications and Other Proposal Requirements

16

2. Certifications and Other Proposal Requirements

2.1 Small Business Administration (SBA) Company Registry

All SBCs that are applying to any SBIR solicitation are required to register with the SBIR Company Registry which is 

managedby theSBA. In addition,all SBCs must updatetheir commercializationstatus atleast annually through the 

SBIR Firm Registry. Information related to the steps necessary to register with the SBIR Firm Registry can be found 

at https://www.sbir.gov/registration.

After an SBC registers with SBA and/or updates its commercialization information, the offeror needs to obtain a 

PDF copy of the registration. The SBC must provide their unique SBC Control ID (assigned by the SBA upon 

completion of the Company Registry registration) and must upload the PDF copy of the SBC registration with the 

Firm Certifications Form. Additional information is in section 2.3 below.

Any proposal package submission that does not contain a PDF of the SBC’s SBA Company Registry registration 

and the unique SBC Control ID will be considered non-compliant with the solicitation requirements and declined, 

resulting in no further evaluations. The offeror will be notified of NASA’s decision to eliminate the proposal 

package from consideration and the reason(s) for the decision.

2.2 System for Award Management (SAM)Registration

Offerors are required to complete the registration process with SAM prior to submitting a completed proposal

package. To be eligible for SBIR awards, firms must be registered under the applicable North American Industry 

Classification System (NAICS) codes for SBIR Phase I and II awards (codes 541713 or 541715). Offerors without an 

active SAM registration by the proposal due date will be ineligible for award. Offerors who started the 

registration process but did not complete the registration by the proposal due date will be ineligible for the 

award.

Offerors who are not registered should consider applying for registration immediately upon receipt of this 

solicitation. Typically, SAM registration and updates to SAM registration have required a processing period of 

several weeks. Offerors and contractors may obtain information on SAM registration and annual confirmation 

requirements at https://www.sam.gov/SAM/pages/public/index.jsf or by calling 866-606-8220.

SAM, maintained by the General Services Administration, is the primary repository for contractor information 

required to conduct business with NASA. To be registered in SAM, all mandatory information, including the Unique 

Entity Identifier (UEI) and a Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code, must be validated in SAM. Note: It is 

recommended to list the Purpose of Registration as “All Awards” on your SAM Registration.

2.3 Certifications

Offerors must complete the Firm and Proposal Certifications by answering “Yes” or “No” to certifications as 

applicable in the Proposal Submissions and Award Management System (ProSAMS). Firms should carefully read 

each of the certification statements. The Federal Government relies on the information to determine whether the 

business is eligible for an award. ProSAMS requires firm registration and login. To access ProSAMS, go to 

https://prosams.nasa.gov/. Note: For Phase II the submission of certifications will be via Box.

A similar certification will be used to ensure continued compliance with specific program requirements at the 

time of awardand during thelife of theFundingAgreement. The definitions for the terms usedinthis certification 

are set forth in the Small Business Act, SBA regulations (13 CFR Part 121),the SBIR/STTR PolicyDirectives, and any 

statutory and regulatory provisions referenced in those authorities.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 2: Certifications and Other Proposal Requirements

17

For Phase I awards, in addition to invoice certifications and as a condition for payment, a life cycle 

certification shall be completed in ProSAMS. The life cycle certification shall be completed along with the final 

invoice certification before uploading the final invoice to the Department of Treasury’s Invoice Processing 

Platform (IPP).

For Phase II awards, two life cycle certifications shall be completed. A life cycle certification shall be 

completed along with the second invoice certification as a condition of payment of the second invoice. 

Another life cycle certification shall be completed along with the final invoice certification as a condition of 

payment of the final invoice.

If the Contracting Officer believes that the business may not meet certain eligibility requirements at the time of 

award, the business is required to file a size protest with the SBA, who will determine eligibility. At that time, SBA 

will request further clarification and supporting documentation to assist in the eligibility determination.

Additionally, the Contracting Officer may request further clarification and supporting documentation regarding 

eligibility to determine whether a referral to SBA is required.

2.3.1 Disclosures of Foreign Affiliations or Relationships to ForeignCountries

Each offeror is required to complete the “Disclosures of Foreign Affiliations or Relationships to Foreign Countries” 

form as part of their proposal submission. Please note that even if you do not have any foreign relationships, you 

must complete this form to represent that such relationships do not exist. Failure to submit this form will result in 

the declination of your proposal during the administrative screening process and your proposal will not be 

evaluated. The disclosure of information related to foreign involvement or investment is required and will not 

automatically disqualify an offeror from consideration. However, failing to disclose such affiliations or 

relationships may provide a basis to deny an award.

The disclosures require the following information:

(A) the identity of all owners and covered individuals of the small business concern who are a party to any 

foreign talentrecruitment programofany foreign country of concern, including the People’s Republic of 

China;

(B) the existence of any joint venture orsubsidiary ofthe small business concern thatis based in, funded by, 

or has a foreign affiliation with any foreign country of concern, including the People’s Republic of China;

(C) any current or pending contractual or financial obligation or other agreement specific to a business 

arrangement, or joint venture-like arrangement with an enterprise owned by a foreign state or any 

foreign entity;

(D) whetherthe small business concern is wholly owned in thePeople’s RepublicofChina or another foreign 

country of concern;

(E) the percentage, if any, of venture capital or institutional investment by an entity that has a general 

partneror individualholdingaleadershiprole in suchentitywho has a foreign affiliation with any foreign 

country of concern, including the People’s Republic of China;

(F) any technology licensingor intellectualproperty sales toaforeign country of concern,including the 

People’s Republic of China, during the five-year period preceding submission of the proposal; and

(G) any foreign entity, offshore entity, or entityoutside theUnited Statesrelatedtothe small business 

concern.

After reviewing the disclosures of the offeror, and if determined appropriate by NASA, the program may ask the 

offeror to provide true copies of any contractual or financial obligation or other agreement specific to a business 

arrangement or joint venture-like arrangement with an enterprise owned by a foreign state or any foreign entity in
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 2: Certifications and Other Proposal Requirements

18

effect during the five-year period preceding the submission of the proposal with respect to which the offeror made 

the disclosures.

Throughout the duration of the award, the awardee will be required to regularly report to NASA any changes to 

required disclosure.

2.4 Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and NASA Certifications andClauses

SAM contains required certifications offerors may access at https://www.acquisition.gov/browsefar as part of the 

required registration (see FAR 4.1102). Offerors must complete these certifications to be eligible for an award.

Offerors should be aware that SAM requires all offerors to provide representations and certifications electronically 

via the website and to update the representations and certifications as necessary, but at least annually, to keep 

them current, accurate, and complete. NASA will not enter into any contract wherein the contractor is not 

compliant with the requirements stipulated herein.

In addition, there are clauses that offerors will need to be aware of if selected for a contract. For a complete list of 

FAR and NASA clauses see Appendix C.

2.5 Software Development Standards

Offerors proposing projects involving the development of software may be required to comply with the 

requirements of NASA Procedural Requirements (NPR) 7150.2A, NASA Software Engineering Requirements, 

available online at https://nodis3.gsfc.nasa.gov/displayDir.cfm?t=NPR&c=7150&s=2.

2.6 Human and/or Animal Subject

Offerors should be aware of the requirement that an approved protocol by a NASA review board is required if the 

proposed work includes human or animal subjects. An approved protocol shall be provided to the Contracting 

Officer prior to the initiation of any human and/or animal subject research. Offerors shall identify the use of 

human or animal subjects in the Proposal Certifications form. For additional information, contact the NASA 

SBIR/STTR Program Support Office at agency-sbir@mail.nasa.gov. Reference 14 CFR 1230 and 1232.

Due to the complexity ofthe approval process,theuse of humanand/oranimalsubjectsis not allowed for Phase 

I contracts.

2.7 HSPD-12

Firms that require access to Federally controlled facilities or access to a Federal information system (Federally 

controlled facilities and Federal information systems are defined in FAR 2.101(b)(2) for 6 consecutive months or 

more must adhere to Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12), Policy for a Common Identification 

Standard for Federal Employees and Contractors, and Federal Information Processing Standards Publication (FIPS 

PUB) Number 201, Personal Identity Verification (PIV) of Federal Employees and Contractors, which require 

agencies to establish and implement procedures to create and use a Government-wide secure and reliable form of 

identification no later than October 27, 2005. See https://nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/FIPS/NIST.FIPS.201-3.pdf.

This is in accordance with FAR clause 52.204-9, Personal Identity Verification of Contractor Personnel, which states 

in part that the contractor shall comply with the requirements of this clause and shall ensure that individuals 

needing such access shall provide the personal background and biographical information requested by NASA. Note: 

Additional information regarding PIV credentials can be found at https://csrc.nist.gov/Projects/PIV.
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Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions andRequirements

3. Proposal Preparation Instructions and Requirements

3.1 Multiple Proposal Submissions (Not Allowed)

An offeror shall not submit more than one (1) proposal to this solicitation.

Note: Offerors are advised to be thoughtful in selecting a topic to ensure the proposal is responsive to the NASA 

need as defined by the topic. The NASA SBIR/STTR program will NOT move a proposal between topics.

3.2 Understanding the Patent Landscape

Offerors shouldindicate inthe proposalthat acomprehensive patentreview has beencompletedto ensure that 

there is no existing patent or perceived patent infringement based on the innovation proposed. The U.S. Patent 

and Trade Office (USPTO) has an online patent search tool that can be found at 

https://www.uspto.gov/patents- application-process/search-patents.

3.3 Proprietary Information in the Proposal Submission

Information contained in unsuccessful proposals will remain the property of the applicant. However, the 

Government will retain copies of all proposals in accordance with its records retention schedule. Public release of 

information in any proposal submitted will be subject to existing statutory and regulatory requirements. If 

proprietary information is provided by an applicant in a proposal, which constitutes a trade secret, commercial or 

financial information, it will be treated in confidence, to the extent permitted by law, provided that the proposal is 

clearly marked by the applicant as follows:

(A) The following “italicized” legend must appear on the title page ofthe proposal:

This proposal contains information that shall not be disclosed outside the Federal Government and shall not 

be duplicated, used, or disclosed in whole or in part for any purpose other than evaluation of this proposal 

unless authorized by law. The Government shall have the right to duplicate, use, or disclose the data to the 

extent provided in the resulting contract if an award is made as a result of the submission of this proposal. 

The information subject to these restrictions is contained on all pages of the proposal except for pages 

[insert page numbers or other identification of pages that contain no restricted information]. (End of 

Legend); and

(B) The following legend must appear on each page ofthe proposalthat contains information the applicant 

wishes to protect:

Use or disclosure of information contained on this sheet is subject to the restriction on the title page of this 

proposal.

3.4 Release of Certain Proposal Information

In submitting a proposal, the offeror agrees to permit the Government to disclose publicly the information 

contained in the Contacts form and the Proposal Summary form which includes the Technical Abstract. Other 

proposal data is considered the property of the offeror, and NASA will protect it from public disclosure to the 

extent permitted by law, including requests submitted under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

3.5 Requirements to Submit a Complete Phase I Proposal Package

3.5.1 General Requirements
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Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions andRequirements

NASA will be using the Proposal Submissions and Award Management System (ProSAMS) for the submission of these 

proposal packages. All offerors must use ProSAMS for submitting a completed proposal package. This solicitation

guides firms through the steps for submitting a complete proposal package. All submissions are through a secure 

connection and most communication between NASA and the firm is through email. ProSAMS requires firm 

registration and login. To access ProSAMS, go to https://prosams.nasa.gov/. Additional details are available in 

section 6.

The complete Phase I proposal package shall contain a slide deck, white paper, and all required forms as described 

in section 3.5.3 below.

3.5.2 Format Requirements

Note: The Government administratively screens all elements of a completed proposal package and will reject 

any proposal that does not conform to the following formatting requirements:

Page Limitations and Margins

A Phase I technical proposal shall contain 2 elements:

• The Slide Deck:

o Shall not exceed 15 slides.

• The White Paper:

o Shall not exceed 7 standard 8.5- by 11-inch (21.6- by 27.9-cm)pages.

o Margins must be 1.0 inches (2.5 cm). Offerors must ensure that the margins comply before uploading.

Technical proposal uploads with any page(s) going over the required page limits will not be accepted. The 

additional forms required in section 3.5.3 for a complete proposal package do not count against the page limits.

Type Size

No type size smaller than 10 points shall be used for text or tables, except for legends on reduced drawings in 

either the slide deck or white paper. Proposal packages prepared with smaller font sizes will be rejected during the 

administrative screening and will not be considered.

Header/Footer Requirements

Slide deck title bars and white paper headers must include the firm name and project title. Footers must include 

the page number and proprietary markings if applicable. Margins can be used for header/footer information.

Classified Information

NASA will reject any proposal package that contains classified information.

Project Title

The proposal project title shall be concise and descriptive of the proposed effort. The title should not use acronyms 

or words like "development of" or "study of". The NASA research topic title must not be used as the proposal title.

3.5.3 Complete Proposal Package

To be considered complete, each proposal package submitted shall contain the following items:
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Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions andRequirements

1. Proposal Information

2. Proposal Contacts

3. Proposal Certifications

4. Proposal Summary (must not contain proprietary data)

5. Proposal Budget (including letters of commitment for government resources and 

subcontractors/consultants,otherdirect costs,andtheforeign vendor form, if applicable)

6. Slide Deck

7. White Paper

8. NASA Evaluation License Application (only if TAV is beingproposed)

9. Technical and Business Assistance (TABA) request(optional)

10. Letters indicating financial support/funding commitments

11. I-Corps Interest Form

12. Firm-Level Forms (completed once for all proposals submitted by a firm to a single solicitation)

a. Firm Information

b. Firm Certifications

c. Audit Information

d. Prior Awards Addendum (for firms with more than 15 Phase II awards in the past 5 years)

e. Disclosures of Foreign Affiliations or Relationships to ForeignCountries

Note: The program will not consider additional items such as relevant technical papers, product samples, 

videotapes, slides, or other ancillary item during the review process.

3.5.3.1 Proposal Information

The Offeror shall submit information for the proposed research and development effort, e.g. the proposal title and 

respective solicitation topic.

3.5.3.1.1 Proposal Contacts

The Offeror shall provide complete information for each contact person and submit the form as required. Note: 

Contact Information is public information and may be disclosed.

3.5.3.2 Proposal Certifications

The Offeror shall provide complete information for each question in the form and certify its accuracy as required.

3.5.3.3 Proposal Summary

The Offeror shall provide complete information for each section of the form as required. Note: The Proposal 

Summary is public information and may be disclosed. Do not include proprietary information in this form.

3.5.3.4 Proposal Budget Form

The offeror must complete the Proposal Budget form following the instructions provided. The total requested 

funding for the Phase I effort shall not exceed $150,000 or $156,500 (if requesting $6,500 for TABA, see sections 1.9 

and 3.5.3.8).

Note:

• NASA is not responsible for any monies expended by the SBC before the award of any contract

• NASA and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) have issued a policy that requires a review of 

any requestto purchase materials orsuppliesfrom foreign vendors. Due to the shorttimeframe to issue 

a Phase I contract,NASA isstrongly encouraging offerorstoconsider purchasing materials and supplies 

from domestic vendors only. If a foreign vendor is proposed,the Phase I contract maybe delayed or not 

awarded.
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Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions andRequirements

In addition, the following information must be submitted in the Proposal Budget form, as applicable:

Proposal Budget Requirements for Use of Government Resources

In cases where an offeror seeks to use Government resources as described in Part 3 of section 3.5.3.5 Slide Deck 

instructions, the offeror shall provide the following:

1. Statement,signedby the appropriateGovernment official at theaffected Federal department or agency, 

verifying that the resources should be available during the proposed period of performance.

2. A signed letter on company letterhead from the SBC’s designated small business representative explaining 

why the SBIR research project requires the use of Government resources (such as, but not limited to, Federal 

services, equipment, or facilities, etc.) including data that verifies the absence of non-Federal facilities or 

personnel capable of supporting the research effort, a statement confirming that the facility proposed is not 

a Federal laboratory, if applicable, and the associated cost estimate.

Note: Use of Federal laboratories/facilities for Phase I contracts is highly discouraged as these arrangements will in 

most cases cause significant delays in making the final award. Approval for the use of Federal facilities and 

laboratories for a Phase Itechnical proposalrequires a strong justification atthetime ofsubmissionand will require 

approval by the Contracting Officer during negotiations if selected for award.

Use of Subcontractors and Consultants

Subject to the restrictions set forth in section 1.6 and below, the SBC may establish business arrangements with 

other entities or individuals to participate in the performance of the proposed R/R&D effort. Subcontractors' and 

consultants' work have the same place-of-performance restrictions as stated in section 1.6.4. See Part 6 of section

3.5.3.6 White Paper for additional information on the use of subcontractors andconsultants.

Offerors that propose using subcontractors or consultants must submit the following:

1. List of consultants by name with the number of hours and hourly costs identified for each consultant.

2. The breakdown ofthesubcontractor budgetshouldmirrorthe SBC’s own breakdownin the Proposal Budget 

form

and include breakdowns of direct labor, other direct costs, and profit, as well as indirect rate agreements.

3. A signed letter of commitmentis required for each subcontractor and/or consultant. For educational 

institutions, the letter must be from the institution’s Office of Sponsored Programs.

For the Phase I contract, the proposed subcontracted business arrangements, including consultants, must not 

exceed 33 percent of the research and/or analytical work [as determined by the total cost of the proposed 

subcontracting effort(to includetheappropriate overhead(OH)andgeneral and administrative expenses (G&A) in 

comparison to the total effort funded by the government (total contract price including cost sharing or less profit, 

if any)].

Occasionally, deviations from this SBIR requirement may occur and must be approved in writing by the 

Contracting Officer after consultation with the NASA SBIR PMO.

Travel in Phase I

Due to the intent and short period of performance of the Phase I contracts, along with their limited budget, travel 

during the Phase I contract is discouraged unless it is required to successfully complete the proposed effort. If the 

purpose of the meeting cannot be accomplished via videoconference or teleconference, the offeror must provide a

rationale for the trip in the proposal budget form. All travel must be approved by the Contracting Officer and 

concurred by the Technical Monitor.

3.5.3.5 Slide Deck

The slide deck must address the three parts below:

Part 1: The Market Opportunity:

Description of the market opportunity should address the following key elements: 
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Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions andRequirements

Commercial Potential—Quantitative Market Analysis

1. Describe themarketsegment andpotential commercialtotal addressablemarket(TAM)that is 

appropriate to the proposed innovation.

2. Describe the proposed innovationinterms oftarget customers (e.g., NASA,other Federal agencies, 

or commercial enterprises).

3. Describe the competitive landscape by identifying potential competitors.

Commercial Intent—Value Proposition

1. Describe the commercial development.

2. Describe the risks tothe commercialdevelopment planandwhatmitigations, ifany, can be taken over 

a reasonable period to lessen the risks.

Commercial Capability—How Will the Innovation Enter into a Market?

1. Describe the current and future company capitalization efforts.

2. As applicable, describe the approach, path to market, and revenues. (Companies with no SBIR/STTR 

awards or only fairly recent SBIR/STTR awards will not be penalized under past performance for the 

lack of past SBIR/STTR commercialization.)

Intellectual Property (IP)

1. Describe how you will protect the IP that results from your innovation.

Assistance and Mentoring

1. Describe the existingandfuture business relationshipsinterms ofany formalpartnerships, joint 

ventures, or licensing agreements with other companies/organizations.

2. Describe the plans forsecuringneeded technicalorbusiness assistancethroughmentoring, partnering, 

or through arrangements with state assistance programs, Small Business Development Centers 

(SBDCs), Federally funded researchlaboratories, ManufacturingExtensionPartnership centers, Federal 

programs, or other assistance providers.

Evidence of follow-on funding commitments:

1. A letter of commitment* for follow-on funding and/or productsales.

2. A letter of commitment* for matching funding is to be provided for a future Phase II-E application.

3. A letter of capital commitment, signed by the proper authority (CEO, CFO, etc.), that indicates a 

commitmentto providefundingand/or productsales,should thePhaseII project be successful, and 

the market need still exists.

4. Letter of intentto providefunding shouldthePhase II project be successful, and themarket need still 

exists.

5. A specific plan to secure Phase III funding.

Note: The slide deck should only include a list of these letters/commitments. The actual letters should be 

uploaded separately.

Part 2: Key Personnel/Team

Identify key individuals involved and their directly related education, experience, and bibliographic information. 

Where vitae are extensive, summaries should focus on the most relevant experience/publications to meet 

proposal size limitations. Note: The PI is considered key to the success of the effort and must make a substantial 

commitment to the project.

Part 3: Facilities and Equipment
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Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions andRequirements

Provide a detailed description, availability, and location of instrumentation and physical facilities proposed. Items 

of equipment to be purchased must be fully justified under this section. When purchasing equipment or a product

under the SBIR funding agreement, small businesses should purchase only American-made items whenever

possible.

Government-furnished laboratory equipment, facilities, or services (collectively, “Government resources”) the 

offeror shall describe in this part why the use of such Government resources is necessary and not reasonably 

available from the private sector. See sections 3.5.3.4 and 5.13 for additional requirements when proposing the 

use of such Government resources. The narrative description of resources should support the proposed approach 

and documentation in the Proposal Budget form. Note: Use of Federal laboratories/facilities for Phase I contracts is 

highly discouraged. Approval for the use of Federal facilities and laboratories for a Phase I completed proposal 

package requires the Contracting Officer's approval during negotiations if selected for award.

3.5.3.6 White Paper

This part of the submission should not contain any budget data and must consist of all 7 parts listed below in the 

given order. All 7 parts of the white paper must be numbered and titled. A proposal package omitting any part 

will be considered non-responsive to this solicitation and rejected without further consideration. Parts that are

not applicable must be included and marked “Not applicable.”

The white paper shall provide all information described in the seven parts below. Evaluators will not seek 

additional information. Any pertinent references or publications should be noted in parts 5 or 6 of the white paper.

Part 1: Table of Contents

The white paper must begin with a brief table of contents indicating the page numbers of each of the parts.

Part Title Page #

Part 1: Table of Contents

Part 2: Identification and Significance of the Opportunity

Part 3: Technical Objectives

Part 4: Work Plan

Part 5: Related R/R&D

Part 6: Subcontractors/Consultants

Part 7: Related, Essentially Equivalent, and Duplicate Proposals and Awards

Part 2: Identification and Significance of the Opportunity

Succinctly describe:

• The proposed innovation.

• The relevance and significance ofthe proposedinnovationtoaninterest, need, or needs, within a topic 

described in section 9.

• The proposed innovation is relative to the current state of theart.

Part 3: Technical Objectives

State the specific objectives of the Phase I R/R&D effort as it relates to the problem statement(s) posed in the topic 

description and the types of innovations being requested. Indicate the proposed deliverables at the end of the 

Phase I effort and how these align with the proposed topic deliverables described within a topic found in section 9.
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Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions andRequirements

Note: All offerors submitting proposals who are planning to use NASA TAV including Intellectual Property (IP) must 

describe their planned developments with the IP. The NASA Evaluation License Application should be added as an 

attachment to the Proposal Certifications form (see section 1.7).

Part 4: Work Plan

Include a detailed description of the Phase I R/R&D plan to meet the technical objectives. The plan shall indicate 

what will be done, where it will be done, and how the R/R&D will be carried out. Discuss in detail the methods 

planned to achieve each task or objective. The plan shall also include task descriptions, schedules, resource 

allocations, estimated task hours for each key personnel, and planned accomplishments (including project 

milestones). Offerors shall ensure that the estimated task hours provided in the work plan for key personnel are 

consistent with the hours reported in the Proposal Budget form. If the offeror is a joint venture or limited 

partnership, a statement of how the workload will be distributed, managed, and charged must be included here.

Part 5: Related R/R&D

Describe significant current and/or previous R/R&D that is directly related to the technical proposal including any 

conducted by the PI or by the offeror. Describe how it relates to the proposed effort and any planned coordination 

with outside sources. The offeror must persuade reviewers of his or her awareness of key recent R/R&D conducted 

by others in the specific subject area.

Part 6: Subcontractors/Consultants

Provide a detailed description, availability, and work to be done by subcontractors/consultants. The offeror must 

describe all subcontracting or other business arrangements and identify the relevant organizations and/or 

individuals with whom arrangements are planned. The expertise to be provided by the entities must be described 

in detail, as well as the functions, services, and number of hours. Offerors are responsible for ensuring that all 

organizations and individuals proposed to be utilized are available for the time periods proposed. Subcontract 

costs shall be documented in the Subcontractors/Consultants section of the Proposal Budget form and supporting 

documentation should be uploaded for each (appropriate documentation is specified in the form). The narrative 

descriptionofsubcontractors andconsultants inthe technical proposalshouldsupportthe proposed approach and 

documentation in the Proposal Budget form.

Part 7: Related, Essentially Equivalent, and Duplicate Proposals and Awards

NOTE: While it is permissible with proper notification to submit identical proposals or proposals containing a 

significant amount ofessentially equivalentwork for consideration undernumerous Federalprogramsolicitations, 

it is unlawful to enter into funding agreements requiring essentially equivalent work.

If an offeror elects to submit identical proposals or proposals containing a significant amount of essentially 

equivalent work under other Federal program solicitations, a statement must be included in each proposal 

indicating the following:

1. The name and address ofthe agencies towhich proposalswere submittedor from whichawards were 

received.

2. Date of proposal submission or date ofaward.

3. Title, number, and date of solicitations under which proposals were submitted or awards received.

4. The specific applicable research topics for each proposal submitted or award received.

5. Titles of research projects.

6. Name andtitle oftheprincipal investigatoror projectmanager for eachproposalsubmitted or 

award received.

Offerors are at risk forsubmittingessentially equivalentproposals andthereforeare strongly encouraged to 

disclose these issues to the soliciting agency to resolve the matter prior to award.
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Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions andRequirements

A summary of essentially equivalent work information, as well as related research and development on proposals 

and awards, is also required on the Proposal Certifications form (if applicable).

3.5.3.7 NASA Evaluation License Application, only if TAV is beingproposed

If you have applied for TAV by following the instructions found at https://technology.nasa.gov/, upload the 

application of the TAV request with your complete proposal package. See section 1.7 for additional details.

3.5.3.8 Request for Use of Technical and Business Assistance (TABA) Funds at Phase I

Offerors may request TABA and can choosetheir own TABA vendor.NASAdoes not have a TABA-preferred vendor. 

All requests for TABA must be submitted with the complete proposal package. However, offerors are not required 

to request TABA at Phase I, and there is no prerequisite that an offeror must use Phase I TABA funding to obtain a 

Phase II award or to request TABA funding at Phase II.

Requests for TABA funding are not reviewed during the commercial or technical evaluation of the proposal, and 

the requestfor TABA funds willnot be part ofthe decision to makean award. All TABA requests will be reviewed 

after a proposal is selected for award and during the contract negotiation process. Offerors selected for Phase I 

contract negotiations can receive up to $6,500 as a TABA supplement to the Phase I award.

Ifrequesting PhaseI TABAfunding, offerors are requiredto providethe followingTABAinformation by following 

the directions found in the Budget form. The following information must be provided for each TABA vendor:

• Name of vendor

• Contact information of the vendor

• Vendor DUNS number

• Vendor website address

• Descriptionofvendor(s)expertise and knowledgeof providing technical andbusiness assistanceservices to 

develop and complete a TABA Needs Assessment for a future Phase II submission, to develop a 

commercialization plan for a future Phase II submission or other TABA services. If requesting TABA for 

other services, the offeror must describe the vendor(s) expertise in providing the requestedservices

• An itemized list of services and costs the TABA vendor will provide. This applies to all vendors.

• Describe the deliverablestheTABA vendor willprovide anda plan tosubmit adeliverable summarizing the 

outcome of the TABA services with expected supporting information.

• TABA costs are reflected in the budgetforms.

Note: All TABA vendors must be a legal business in the United States and NASA will review the U.S. Governmentwide System for Award Management (SAM) excluded parties list to ensure the proposed TABA vendor can receive 

Federal funds. NASA will consider TABA requests that are missing any requested TABA information (e.g., DUNS 

number, etc.) as incomplete and will not review the TABA request or provide TABA approval under the award.

NASA reserves the right to withhold funds requested for TABA until a formal review and approval of the requested 

vendor is completed. In addition, reviewing the TABA request in the proposal package, NASA may also consider 

additional information, such as a review of the vendor’s website, Dun and Bradstreet reports, and SAM.gov, to 

verify the existence of the vendor(s) and to assess the capability of the vendor(s). NASA will only approve TABA 

funding if the proposal is selected for a Phase I award and the offeror adequately demonstrates the existence and 

capability of the selected vendor(s) as determined at the sole discretion of NASA. Notification of the approval or 

denial of TABA funding will be provided to the offeror prior to the award.
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Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions andRequirements

Any TABA funding will be in addition to the Phase I contract award value, is not subject to any profit or fee by 

the requesting firm, and cannot be used in the calculation of indirect cost rates or general and administrative 

expenses(G&A). TheTABA cost(s) andservice(s)to be provided by each vendorwill bebased on the original Phase 

I period of performance. Requests for TABA funding outside of the Phase I period of performance or after a 

complete proposal package has been submitted will not be considered.

Schedule of Deliverables and Payments for TABA—offerors that are approved to receive TABA under a Phase I 

award will be reimbursed for TABA expenses. Reimbursement for TABA will be based on the awardee providing a 

TABA end-of-contract report at the end of the contract period of performance. Reimbursement will not be 

provided for any amounts incurred over the TABA funding amount approved by the Government prior to award.

3.5.3.9 Firm Level Forms

Form submissions shall be completed through ProSAMS and do not count toward the page limits for the slide deck 

or white paper. To access ProSAMS, go to https://prosams.nasa.gov.

A. Firm Information

Firm information must be completed once for each firm and are applicable across all proposal package 

submissions by the firm to this solicitation. The offeror shall provide identifying information for the firm.

B. Firm Certifications

Firm certifications must be completed once for each firm and are applicable across all proposal package 

submissions by the firm to this solicitation. The offeror shall answer “Yes” or “No” as applicable.

C. Disclosures of Foreign Affiliations or Relationships to ForeignCountries

Each offeror is required to complete the Disclosures of Foreign Affiliations or Relationships to Foreign Countries 

form as required in ProSAMS. See section 2.5 for additional information on these disclosures. The offeror shall 

answer “Yes” or “No” as applicable and provide the requested information related to each “yes” response.

Please note that even if you do not have any foreign relationships, you must complete the "Disclosures of 

Foreign Affiliations or Relationships to Foreign Countries form." to represent that such relationships do not 

exist. Failure to complete and include this form will result in the declination of your application during the 

administrative screening.

D. Audit Information

Although firms are not required to have an approved accounting system, the knowledge that a firm has an 

approved accounting system facilitates NASA’s determination that rates are fair and reasonable. To assist 

NASA, the SBC shall complete the questions in the Audit Information section of ProSAMS regarding the firm’s 

rates and upload the Federal agency audit report or related information that is available from the last audit, if 

applicable.

E. Prior Awards Addendum (for firms with more than 15 Phase II awards in the past 5 years)

If the SBC has received more than 15 Phase II awards in the prior 5 fiscal years, submit the name of the 

awarding agency, solicitation year, phase, date of award, Funding Agreement/contract number, and subtopic 

title for each Phase II.
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Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions andRequirements

3.5.3.10 I-Corps Interest Form

A complete proposal package will require Offerors to complete a short I-Corps interest form (see section 1.8 for 

additional information on the I-Corps program) as part of their submission. NASA uses this form to determine the 

level of interest from Phase I Offerors to participate in the NASA I-Corps program.

Based on the initial level of interest in the I-Corps program, NASA plans to open the opportunity to all Phase I 

awardees to ensure a successful cohort of teams participate in the program. Phase I awardees will receive 

information from the SBIR/STTR PMO during contract negotiations describing the process to provide a 5-page 

proposal to participate in the I-Corps program. Directions for completing the proposal including due dates, training 

dates, and available grant funding will be provided via email.

Additional details on the program can be found at https://sbir.nasa.gov/content/I-Corps.

The Government reserves the right to limit the number of Offerors to participate in the I-Corps program based on 

the assessment of the I-Corps proposals and funding availability.

3.6 Requirements to Submit a Complete Phase II ProposalPackage

3.6.1 General Requirements

NASA will be using Box for the submission of the Phase II proposal packages. This solicitation guides firms 

through the steps for submitting a complete proposal package. All submissions will be completed through the 

Box URL provided to each firm and most communication between NASA and the firm is through email. Additional 

details are available in section 6.1.1.2.

Complete Phase II proposal packages must contain all documents as described in sections 3.6.3 below.

3.6.2 Format Requirements

Note: TheGovernment administratively screens allelements of a proposalpackage and willreject any proposal 

package that does not conform to the following formatting requirements.

Page Limitations and Margins

Technical Proposal:

o Shall not exceed a total of 40 standard 8.5- by 11-inch (21.6- by 27.9-cm) pages.

o Margins must be 1.0 inches (2.5 cm). Offerors must ensure that themargins comply before uploading.

Proposaluploads with any page(s)goingovertherequired pagelimits will not beaccepted. The additional forms 

required for a complete proposal package do not count against the page limits.

Type Size

In the proposal, no type size smaller than 10 pointsshall be used for text or tables, except for legends on reduced 

drawings. Proposal packages prepared with smaller font sizes will be rejected during the administrative screening 

and will not be considered.

Header/Footer Requirements

Proposal headers must include the firm name and project title. Footers must include the page number and 

proprietary markings if applicable. Margins can be used for header/footer information.

Classified Information

NASA will reject any Phase II proposal package that contains classified information.
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Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions andRequirements

Project Title

The proposal project title shall be concise and descriptive of the proposed effort. The title should not use acronyms 

or words like "development of" or "study of." The NASA research topic title must not be used as the proposal title.

3.6.3 Complete Phase II Proposal Package

To be considered complete, each Phase II proposal package submitted shall contain the following items:

1. Proposal Information

2. Proposal Contacts

3. Proposal Certifications

4. Proposal Summary (must not contain proprietary data)

5. Proposal Budget (including letters of commitment for government resources and 

subcontractors/consultants,otherdirect costs,andtheforeign vendor form, if applicable)

6. Phase II Proposal Narrative

7. NASA Evaluation License Application, only if TAV is beingproposed

8. Technical and Business Assistance (TABA) request (optional)

9. Letters indicating financial support/funding commitments

10. Firm-Level Forms

a. Firm Certifications

b. Audit Information

c. Prior Awards Addendum (for firms with more than 15 Phase II awards in the past 5 years) 

d. Disclosures of Foreign Affiliations or Relationships to ForeignCountries

Note: The program will not consider additional items such as relevant technical papers, product 

samples, videotapes, slides, or other ancillary items during the review process.

3.6.3.1 Proposal Information

The Offeror shall provide complete information for each contact person and submit the form as required. Note: 

Contact Information is public information and may be disclosed.

3.6.3.1.1 Proposal Contacts

The Offeror shall provide complete information for each contact person and submit the form as required. Note: 

Contact Information is public information and may be disclosed.

3.6.3.2 Proposal Certifications Form

The Offeror shall provide complete information for each item and certify its accuracy as required.

3.6.3.3 Proposal Summary

The Offeror shall provide complete information for each item as required. Note: The Proposal Summary is public 

information and may be disclosed. Do not include proprietary information in this form.

3.6.3.4 Proposal Budget Form

Note: The Government is not responsible for any monies expended by the firm before the award of any 

contract. The offeror must complete the Proposal Budget form following the instructions provided. The total 

requested funding for the Phase II effort shall not exceed $850,000 or $900,000 (if requesting up to $50,000 for 

TABA, see sections 1.9 and 3.6.3.7). In addition, the following information must be submitted in the Proposal 

Budget form, as applicable:
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Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions andRequirements

Proposal Budget Requirements for Use of Government Resources

In cases where an offeror seeks to use Government resources as described in Part 8 of section 3.6.3.5 Phase II 

proposal narrative instructions, the offeror shall provide the following:

1. Statement,signedby the appropriateGovernment official at theaffected Federaldepartment or agency, 

verifying that the resources should be available during the proposed period of performance.

2. A signed letter on company letterhead from the SBC’s designated small business representative explaining 

why the SBIR research project requires the use of Government resources (such as, but not limited to, Federal 

services, equipment, or facilities, etc.) including data that verifies the absence of non-Federal facilities or 

personnel capable of supporting the research effort, a statement confirming that the facility proposed is not 

a Federal laboratory, if applicable, and the associated cost estimate.

Use of Subcontractors and Consultants

Subject to the restrictions set forth in section 1.6 and below, the SBC may establish business arrangements with 

other entities or individuals to participate in the performance of the proposed R/R&D effort. Subcontractors' and 

consultants' work have the same place-of-performance restrictions as stated in section 1.6.4. See Part 9 of section

3.6.3.5 PhaseII proposalnarrativeinstructions for additional informationon theuseofsubcontractors and 

consultants.

Offerors that propose using subcontractors or consultants must submit the following:

1. List of consultants by name with the number of hours and hourly costs identified for each consultant.

2. The breakdown ofthesubcontractor budgetshould mirrorthe SBC’s own breakdownin the Proposal 

Budget form

and include breakdowns of direct labor, other direct costs, and profit, as well as indirect rate agreements.

3. A signed letter of commitmentis required for each subcontractor and/or consultant. For educational 

institutions, the letter must be from the institution’s Office of Sponsored Programs.

In Phase II, the proposed subcontracted business arrangements, including consultants, must not exceed 50 percent 

of the research and/or analytical work [as determined by the total cost of the proposed subcontracting effort (to 

include the appropriate overhead (OH) and general and administrative expenses (G&A) in comparison to the total 

effort funded by the government (total contract price including cost sharing or less profit, if any)]. Occasionally, 

deviations from this SBIR requirement may occur and must be approved in writing by the Contracting Officer after 

consultation with the NASA SBIR PMO.

3.6.3.5 Phase II Proposal Narrative

The proposal must consist of all 10 parts listed below in the given order. All 10 parts of the proposal document 

must be numbered and titled. The proposal must not contain budget data. A proposal that omits any part will 

be considered non-responsive to this solicitation and rejected without further consideration. Parts that are not

applicable must be included and marked “Not applicable.”

Part 1: Table of Contents

The proposal must begin with a brief table of contents indicating the page numbers of each of the parts.

Part Title Page #

Part 1: Table of Contents

Part 2: Identification and Significance of the Opportunity

Part 3: Technical Objectives

Part 4: Work Plan

Part 5: Related R/R&D
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Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions andRequirements

Part 6: Key Personnel

Part 7: Commercialization and Business Plan

Part 8: Facilities and Equipment

Part 9: Subcontractors/Consultants

Part 10: Related, Essentially Equivalent, and Duplicate Proposals and Awards

Any pertinent references or publications should be noted in parts 5 or 6 of the proposal.

Part 2: Identification and Significance of the Opportunity

Succinctly describe:

• The proposed innovation.

• The relevance and significance ofthe proposedinnovationtoaninterest, need, or needs, within a topic 

described in section 9.

• The proposed innovation is relative to the current state of theart.

Part 3: Technical Objectives

State the specific objectives of the Phase II R/R&D effort as it relates to the problem statement(s) posed in the 

topic description and the types of innovations being requested. Indicate the proposed deliverables at the end of 

the Phase II effort and how these align with the proposed topic deliverables described within a topic found in 

section 9.

Note:Allofferorssubmitting proposalswho areplanning to useNASATAVincluding IntellectualProperty (IP) must 

describe their planned developments with the IP. The NASA Evaluation License Application should be added as an 

attachment to the Proposal Certifications form (see section 1.7).

Part 4: Work Plan

Include a detailed description of the Phase II R/R&D plan to meet the technical objectives. The plan shall indicate 

what will be done, where it will be done, and how the R/R&D will be carried out. Discuss in detail the methods 

planned to achieve each task or objective. The plan shall also include task descriptions, schedules, resource 

allocations, estimated task hours for each key personnel, and planned accomplishments (including project 

milestones). Offerors shall ensure that the estimated task hours provided in the work plan for key personnel are 

consistent with the hours reported in the Proposal Budget form. If the offeror is a joint venture or limited 

partnership, a statement of how the workload will be distributed, managed, and charged must be included here. 

Note: The SBIR Ignite program aims to accelerate the advancement of technology to market. Because of this, the 

program encourages Phase II proposals with periods of performance less than the standard 24 months in a regular 

Phase II award.

Part 5: Related R/R&D

Describe significant current and/or previous R/R&D that is directly related to the technical proposal including any 

conducted by the PI or by the offeror. Describe how it relates to the proposed effort and any planned coordination 

with outside sources. The offeror must persuade reviewers of his or her awareness of key recent R/R&D conducted 

by others in the specific subject area.

Part 6: Key Personnel and Biographical Information of Directly Related Work

Identify all key personnel involved in Phase II activities whose expertise and functions are essential to the success 

of the project. Provide biographical information, including directly related education and experience. Where 

resume/vitae are extensive, summaries that focus on the most relevant experience or publications are desired and
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Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions andRequirements

may be necessary to meet the proposal size limitation. Note: If the Phase II key personnel are different than the key 

personnel under Phase I, please provide a rationale for the change.

Part 7: Commercialization and Business Plan

This part should provide the following information to communicate and validate that the firm has the knowledge 

and ability to commercialize the innovation being proposed and to validate the company’s future viability and 

financial viability.

Commercial Potential—Quantitative Market Analysis

1. Describe themarketsegment andpotential commercialtotal addressablemarket(TAM)that is 

appropriate to the proposed innovation.

a. Indicate how the market was validated and what assumptions were used in the analysis.

b. Indicate the market size by providing the scope in dollars ifpossible.

c. Indicate market segmentation and/or TAM in dollars ifpossible.

d. Indicate the projectedpercentage of the offeror’s marketshare in2 to 3 years after entry into 

the identified market.

2. Describe the proposedinnovationinterms oftarget customers(e.g., NASA, other Federal agencies, 

or commercial enterprises).

3. Describe the competitive landscape by identifying potential competitors.

a. Indicatepotential competitors by company name within the identified market.

b. Discuss the barriers toentry andhow many years itwouldtake a competitor toenter this 

segment in terms of capitalization, technology, and people.

c. Describe how the proposed innovation is different from current and future competitors.

Commercial Intent—Value Proposition

1. Describe the commercial development.

a. Include the development timeline to bring the innovation tomarket.

b. Describe theapplicablebusinessmodel(spin-out,license,original equipmentmanufacturer 

(OEM), etc.) the offeror would use to bring the innovation to market.

c. Indicatethe channels ofdistribution (directsales,distributors, etc.)that would be used in 

bringing the innovation into the identified market.

d. Indicate the pro forma 2-to 3-year revenue dollar projections based on the proposed 

innovation’s penetration of the identified market.

e. Describe any follow-on development(long term > 5 years) plans to expand your proposed 

innovation’s market presence.

2. Describe the risks tothe commercialdevelopment planandwhatmitigations, ifany, can be taken over a 

reasonable period to lessen the risks.

Commercial Capability—How Will the Innovation Enter into a Market?

1. Describe the current and future company capitalizationefforts.

a. Provide a pro forma forecast based on income statements, balance sheet(s), and statement of 

cashflows. These forecastsshouldindicatecurrent and projected revenues, expenses, and other 

items that are calculated as a percentage of future sales.

b. Discuss theoperations/manufacturingandbusinessstaff conducting theproject and how they 

will be utilized to achieve commercialization.

c. Describe the physicalplant,including facilities and thecapital equipment,tooling,and test 

equipment used to conduct the investigation and how they will be utilized to achieve 

commercialization.
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Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions andRequirements

d. Discuss consultants,incubators,andresearchinstitutionsthat willbeutilizedto achieve 

commercialization.

e. Indicate how the innovation will enter production (i.e., in-house or through a licensee or other 

means)and what changes (if any)will bemade tocompany capitalizationfor commercialization.

2. As applicable, describe the approach, path to market, and revenues from past commercialization(s) 

resulting fromSBIR/STTRawards disclosedinthe CommercialMetrics Survey (CMS).(Companies with no 

SBIR/STTR awards or only recent SBIR/STTRawardswillnot be penalizedunder past performance for the 

lack of past SBIR/STTR commercialization.)

Intellectual Property (IP)

1. Describe how you will protect the IP that results from yourinnovation.

a. Note any actions you may consider for at least a temporary competitive advantage.

b. Describe your company’s prior IP record.

c. Comment on the company’s strategy to build a sustainable business through the protection of IP.

Assistance and Mentoring

1. Describe the existingand futurebusiness relationships interms ofany formal partnerships, joint ventures, 

or licensing agreements with other companies/organizations.

2. Describe the plans forsecuringneeded technicalorbusiness assistancethroughmentoring, partnering, or 

through arrangements with state assistance programs, Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), 

Federally funded research laboratories, Manufacturing Extension Partnership centers, Federal programs, 

or other assistance providers.

Identify if any assistance and mentoring is being requested under your TABA needs assessment and 

provide details in this section. The TABA needs assessment is reviewed separately from the proposal.

Evidence of follow-on funding commitments:

1. A letter of commitment for follow-on funding and/or product sales with actual dollar amounts

2. A letter of commitment with thematching fundingdollar amountistobe providedfor a future Phase 

II-E application.

3. A letterof capital commitment,signedby theproper authority (CEO, CFO, etc.),that indicates the dollar 

amount of the commitment to provide funding and/or product sales, should the Phase II project be 

successful, and the market need still exists.

4. Any evidence of follow-on-onfundingwhichreferences PhaseI as being catalytic to encourage 

investment, commercial sales, contracts, etc.

5. A specific plan to secure Phase III funding.

Note: The proposal should only include a list of these letters/commitments. The actual letters should be 

uploaded separately. Letters expressing general technical interest are not required or desired and will not be 

considered during the review process. Letters of commitment are considered strong evidence of follow-on 

funding, while general letters of interest or support, e.g. lacking actual dollar amounts, are considered weaker 

forms of evidence.

Part 8: Facilities and Equipment

If an offeror requests to use Government-furnished laboratory equipment, facilities, or services (collectively, 

“Government resources”) the offeror shall describe in this part why the use of such Government resources is 

necessary and not reasonably available from the private sector. See sections 3.6.3.4 and 5.13 for additional 

requirements when proposing the use of such Government resources. The narrative description of resources should 

support the proposed approach and documentation in the Proposal Budget form.
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Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions andRequirements

Part 9: Subcontractors/Consultants

The offeror must describe all subcontracting or other business arrangements and identify the relevant 

organizations and/or individuals with whom arrangements are planned. The expertise to be provided by the 

entities must be described in detail, as well as the functions, services, number of hours, and labor rates. Offerors 

are responsible for ensuring that all organizations and individuals proposed to be utilized are actually available for 

the time periods proposed. Subcontract costs shall be documented in the Subcontractors/Consultants section of 

the Proposal Budget form and supporting documentation should be uploaded for each (appropriate 

documentation is specified in the form). The narrative description of subcontractors and consultants in the 

technical proposal should support the proposed approach and documentation in the Proposal Budget form.

Part 10: Related, Essentially Equivalent, and Duplicate Proposals and Awards

NOTE: While it is permissible with proper notification to submit identical proposals or proposals containing a 

significant amount of essentially equivalent work for consideration under numerous Federal program 

solicitations, it is unlawful to enter into funding agreements requiring essentially equivalent work.

If an applicant elects to submit identical proposals or proposals containing a significant amount of essentially 

equivalent work under other Federal program solicitations, a statement must be included in each such proposal 

indicating the following:

1. The name and address ofthe agencies towhich proposalswere submittedor from whichawards were 

received.

2. Date of proposal submission or date ofaward.

3. Title, number, and date of solicitations under which proposals were submitted or awards received.

4. The specific applicable research topics for each proposalsubmitted for the award received.

5. Titles of research projects.

6. Name andtitle oftheprincipal investigatoror projectmanager for eachproposalsubmitted or 

award received.

Offerors are at risk forsubmittingessentially equivalentproposals andthereforeare strongly encouraged to 

disclose these issues to the soliciting agency to resolve the matter prior to award. A summary of essentially 

equivalent work information, as well as related research and development on proposals and awards, is also 

required on the Proposal Certifications form (if applicable).

3.6.3.6 NASA Evaluation License Application, only if TAV is beingproposed

If youhave applied for TAVby following the instructions foundat https://technology.nasa.gov/, upload the 

applicationofthe TAV request with your completeproposal package.See section 1.6 for additional details.

3.6.3.7 Request for Use of Technical and Business Assistance (TABA) Funds at Phase II

Offerors may request TABA and can choose their own TABA vendor. NASA does not have a TABA-preferred vendor. 

All requests for TABA must be submitted with the complete proposal package.

Requests for TABA funding are not reviewed during the evaluation of the proposal, and the request for TABA funds 

will not be part of the decision to make an award. All TABA requests will be reviewed after a proposal is selected 

for award and during the contract negotiation process. Offerors selected for Phase II contract negotiations can 

receive up to $50,000 as a TABA supplement to the Phase II award.

If requesting Phase II TABA funding, offerors are required to provide the following TABA information by following 

the directions found in the Budget form. The following information must be provided for each TABA vendor:
35

Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions andRequirements

• Name of vendor

• Contact information of the vendor

• Vendor DUNS number

• Vendor website address

• Description of vendor(s) expertise and knowledge of providing technical and business assistance services.

• An itemized list of services and costs the TABA vendor will provide. This applies to all vendors.

• Describe the deliverablestheTABA vendor willprovide anda plan tosubmit adeliverable summarizing the 

outcome of the TABA services with expected supporting information.

• TABA costs are reflected in the budgetforms.

Note: All TABA vendors must be a legal business in the United States and NASA will review the U.S. Governmentwide System for Award Management (SAM) excluded parties list to ensure the proposed TABA vendor can receive 

Federal funds. NASA will consider TABA requests that are missing any requested TABA information (e.g., DUNS 

number, etc.) as incomplete and will not review the TABA request or provide TABA approval under the award.

NASA reserves the right to withhold funds requested for TABA until a formal review and approval of the requested 

vendor is completed. In addition, reviewing the TABA request in the proposal package, NASA may also consider 

additional information, such as a review of the vendor’s website, Dun and Bradstreet reports, and SAM.gov, to 

verify the existence of the vendor(s) and to assess the capability of the vendor(s). NASA will only approve TABA 

funding if the proposal is selected for a Phase II award and the offeror adequately demonstrates the existence and 

capability of the selected vendor(s) as determined at the sole discretion of NASA. Notification of the approval or 

denial of TABA funding will be provided to the offeror prior to the award.

Any TABA funding will be in addition to the Phase II contract award value, is not subject to any profit or fee by 

the requesting firm, and cannot be used in the calculation of indirect cost rates or general and administrative 

expenses(G&A). TheTABA cost(s)andservice(s)to be provided by eachvendor willbe based on the original Phase 

I period of performance. Requests for TABA funding outside of the Phase II period of performance or after a 

complete proposal package has been submitted will not be considered.

Schedule ofDeliverables and Payments for TABA—offerors that are approved to receive TABA under a Phase II 

award will be reimbursed for TABA expenses. Reimbursement for TABA will be based on the awardee providing a 

TABA end-of-contract report at the end of the contract period of performance. Reimbursement will not be 

provided for any amounts incurred over the TABA funding amount approved by the Government prior to award.

3.6.3.8 Firm Level Forms

Form submissions shall be completed in Box and do not count toward the page limits for the proposal. To access 

the firm-level and proposal-level forms, go to https://www.nasa.gov/sbir_sttr/sbir-ignite/.

A. Firm Certifications

Firm certifications must be completed once for each firm and are applicable across all proposal package 

submissions by the firm to this solicitation. The offeror shall answer “Yes” or “No” as applicable.

B. Audit Information

Although firms are not required to have an approved accounting system, the knowledge that a firm has an 

approved accounting system facilitates NASA’s determination that rates are fair and reasonable. To assist 

NASA, the SBC shall complete the questions in the Audit Information form regarding the firm’s rates and 

upload the Federal agency audit report or related information that is available from the last audit, if 

applicable.
36

Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions andRequirements

C. Prior Awards Addendum (for firms with more than 15 Phase II awards in the past 5years)

If the SBC has received more than 15 Phase II awards in the prior 5 fiscal years, submit the name of the 

awarding agency, solicitation year, phase, date of award, Funding Agreement/contract number, and 

topic/subtopic title for each Phase II in the Prior Awards Addendum.

D. Disclosure of Disclosures of Foreign Affiliations or Relationships to ForeignCountries

You must complete the “Disclosures of Foreign Affiliations or Relationships to Foreign Countries” form as part of 

your proposal submission. Even if you do not have any foreign relationships, you must complete this form to 

represent that such relationships do not exist. If you do not submit this form, NASA will decline your proposal 

during the administrative screening process, and it will not be evaluated. Foreign involvement or investment does 

not independently disqualify you but failing to disclose such affiliations or relationships may result in denial of an 

award.

The disclosures require the following information:

• the identity of all owners and covered individuals of the small business concern who are a party to any 

foreign talent recruitment program of any foreign country of concern, including the People’s Republic of 

China;

• the existence of any joint venture or subsidiary of the small business concern that is based in, funded by, or 

has a foreign affiliation with any foreign country of concern, including the People’s Republic of China;

• any current or pending contractual or financial obligation or other agreement specific to a business 

arrangement, or joint venture-like arrangement with an enterprise owned by a foreign state or any foreign 

entity;

• whether the small business concern is wholly owned in the People’s Republic of China or another foreign 

country of concern;

• the percentage, if any, of venture capital or institutional investment by an entity that has a general partner 

or individual holding a leadership role in such entity who has a foreign affiliation with any foreign country of 

concern, including the People’s Republic of China;

• any technology licensing or intellectual property sales to a foreign country of concern, including the 

People’s Republic of China, during the five-year period preceding submission of the proposal; and

• any foreign entity, offshore entity, or entity outside the United States related to the small business concern.

After reviewing the above listed disclosures, and if determined appropriate by NASA, the program may ask you to 

provide true copies of any contractual or financial obligation or other agreement specific to a business 

arrangement or joint venture-like arrangement with an enterprise owned by a foreign state or any foreign entity 

in effect during the five-year period before proposal submission. 

During award, you must regularly report to NASA any changes to a required disclosure.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 4: Method of Selection and EvaluationCriteria

37

4. Method of Selection and Evaluation Criteria

The NASA SBIR Program does not make awards solely directed toward system studies, market research, routine 

engineering, development of existing product(s), proven concepts, or modifications of existing products without 

substantive innovation.

All Phase I and II proposals will be evaluated and judged on a competitive basis (as an “other competitive 

procedure” in accordance with FAR 6.102(d)(2) and FAR 35.016 (and the criteria and procedures set forth within 

this solicitation). Proposals will be initially screened for (1) compliance with the solicitation requirements and (2) 

responsiveness to the proposed topic. Proposals passing this initial screening will be evaluated by 

commercialization experts, engineers, or scientists to determine the most promising technologies. Offerors should 

not assume that evaluators are acquainted with the offeror, key individuals, or with any experiments or other 

information. Each proposal will be judged on its own merit in accordance with the criteria and procedures set forth 

within this solicitation and NASA will not conduct any tradeoff analyses between or among competed proposals. 

NASA is under no obligation to fund any proposal or any specific number of proposals on each topic. It also may 

elect to fund several or none of the proposed approaches to the same topic.

4.1 Phase I Evaluation Process and EvaluationCriteria

NASA will conduct a multi-stage review process of all completed Phase I proposal packages to determine if the 

proposal can be moved forward to be evaluated and ranked on a competitive basis:

4.1.1 Administrative Review

All completed proposal packages received by the published deadline will undergo an administrative screening to 

determine if the proposal package meets the requirements found in Chapter 3 (Proposal Preparation Instructions 

and Requirements), and Chapter 6 (Submission of Proposals). A proposal package that is found to be noncompliant with any requirements in Chapters 3 and 6 may be rejected and no further evaluations will occur. The 

offeror will be notified of NASA’s decision to eliminate the proposal package from consideration and the reason(s) 

for the decision. Incomplete proposal packages will be automatically rejected, and no further evaluations will 

occur.

4.1.2 Proposal Responsiveness

All completed proposal packages received by the published deadline will undergo a responsiveness screening on 

the technical abstract and proposal to determine if the proposed research/research & development is responsive 

to the topic. Failure to adequately communicate how the proposal relates to the technical need posed in the 

topic willresult in the proposalbeing rejected and no further evaluations will occur. Offerors are advised that this 

is a commercialization-focused solicitation. Offerors are also advised to be thoughtful in selecting a topic area to 

ensure the proposal is responsive to the need as defined by the topic. The NASA SBIR program will NOT evaluate a 

proposal under a topic that was not selected by the firm and will not switch a proposal package from one topic to 

another.

4.1.3 Evaluation Criteria

The following four evaluation factors will be used in the review of the proposal documents that have met the 

administrative and responsiveness requirements of this solicitation.

Factor 1: Commercial Potential

The assessment of the commercial potential of the Phase I proposal (as described in the slide deck and white 

paper) will be evaluated to determine its effectiveness in achieving the following:
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 4: Method of Selection and EvaluationCriteria

38

• Description of the commercial potential through a quantitative market analysis to include the market 

segmentationandthecommercial TotalAddressableMarket(TAM),theproposedinnovation interms of 

target customers, and the competitive landscape, by identifying potential competitors.

• Descriptionof commercial intent toinclude thedevelopment timelinerequiredtobring the innovation to 

market, the applicable business model (spin-out, license, OEM, etc.) the offeror would use, and the risks 

to the commercial development plan and what mitigations, if any, can be taken over a reasonable period 

of time to lessen the risks.

• Description ofthe commercial capability to include the current and future company capitalization efforts

• DescriptionoftheOfferor's approachto protectingany IntellectualProperty thatresults from the 

innovation.

• Description of any assistance or mentoring the company intends topursue.

• Evidence of follow-on funding support.

• Evidence that SBIR IGNITE supportwillserveas a catalysttoimprove substantially the technical and 

commercial impact of the underlying commercial endeavor.

• Firms that have received more than $10M of funding either from prior SBIRs across agencies and or VCs 

wouldhave to justifywhy an additional $1M from SBIR wouldbe catalytic whenthe prior$10M+ was not.

Factor 2: Scientific/Technical Merit and Feasibility

The Phase I proposal (as described in the slide deck and white paper) will be evaluated to determine its 

effectiveness in achieving the following criteria:

• The technical approachandthe anticipatedagency andcommercialbenefits may be derived from the 

research.

• The adequacy oftheproposedeffort, and its relationship tothefulfillment ofrequirements ofthe 

research topic.

• The soundness andtechnicalmerit oftheproposedapproach andits incrementalprogress toward a 

topic solution.

• The proposal should describe an innovative and feasible technical approach to the identified NASA 

problemarea/topic. Specificobjectives,approaches,andplans fordevelopingandverifying the innovation 

must demonstrate a clear understanding of the problem and the current state of the art. The degree of 

understanding and significance of the risks involved in the proposed innovation must bepresented.

Factor 3: Experience, Qualifications, and Facilities

The qualifications of the proposed Principal Investigators/Project Managers, supporting staff and consultants, and 

subcontractors, if any, will be evaluated for consistency with the research effort and their degree of commitment 

and availability. The proposed necessary instrumentation or facilities required to accomplish the proposed 

technical approach will be evaluated to determine if they are adequate. In addition, any proposed reliance on 

external sources, such as Government-furnished equipment or facilities (part 8 of section 3.5.3.5 Slide Deck), will 

be evaluated for the reasonableness of the need.

Factor 4: Effectiveness of the Proposed Work Plan

The proposed work plan should describe the methods planned to achieve each objective or task in detail. The work 

plan will be evaluated for comprehensiveness, including its proposed effective use of available resources and 

approach to labor distribution. In addition, the work plan’s proposed schedule for meeting the Phase I objectives 

will be evaluated to make sure they are reasonable and consistent with the proposed technical approach.

4.1.4 Scoring of Factors and Weighting to Determine the Most Highly RatedProposals

• Factor 1: Commercialization Potential is worth a maximum of 30 points.

• Factor 2: Scientific/Technical Merit and Feasibility is wortha maximum of 30 points.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 4: Method of Selection and EvaluationCriteria

39

• Factor 3: Experience, Qualifications, and Facilities are worth a maximum of 20 points.

• Factor 4: Effectiveness of the Proposed Work Plan is worth a maximum of 20 points.

The sum of the scores for Factors 1, 2, 3, and 4 will constitute the proposal’s total score. The most highly rated 

proposals will be presented to the Panel (4.1.6) for additional review and consideration.

4.1.5 Price Evaluation

Utilizing the procedures set forth in FAR 15.404-1, the offeror’s budget proposal form will be evaluated to 

determine whether the offeror’s proposed pricing is fair and reasonable. NASA will only make an award when the 

price is fair and reasonable and approved by the NASA Contracting Officer. If a proposal is selected for an award, 

the Contracting Officer will review all the evaluations for the proposal and will address any pricing issues identified 

during the negotiation of the final award.

4.1.6 Panel Review

A panel made up of NASA subject matter experts and/or 3rd party reviewers will review the most highly rated 

proposals. The panel will assign adjectival ratings and rank the proposals considering the results of 4.1.4 and 

programmatic investment considerations (e.g., first-time awardee, portfolio balance across technologies, other 

strategic considerations, etc.). The most highly ranked proposals will be invited to present a slide deck and 

participate in a Question & Answer session. Specific details regarding the Question & Answer session will be 

provided with the invitation as well as a feedback summary form. Note that this feedback may form the basis for 

the questions asked at the Q&A session. Only Offerors invited to present at the Question & Answer may revise 

their slide decks. Revisions and resubmissions must occur within 5 calendar days of invitation notification.

Revisions are not mandatory, therefore firms that choose not to revise their slide deck(s) will not be penalized but 

judged on the substance of the presentation(s). The questions will be tailored to the specifics of each Offeror’s 

proposal.

Following the completion of the Question & Answer sessions, the panel will assign a final adjectival rating 

considering the proposal, the Offeror’s slide deck presentation, and responses during the Question & Answer 

session and establish final rankings of the proposals in each topic area.

The possible adjectival ratings for the Panel Review are:

• Excellent: A thoroughandcompellingproposal ofexceptional merit,withoneor moresignificantstrengths 

and no significant weaknesses, that fully responds to the objectives of the solicitation.

• Very Good: Acompetent proposalofhigh merit, with oneor moresignificantstrengths and where 

strengths outbalance any weaknesses that may exist, that fully responds to the objectives of the 

solicitation.

• Good:Aproposalthatrepresents acredible and reasonably soundresponse tothesolicitation. As a whole, 

any weaknesses not offset by strengths do not significantly detract from the response.

• Fair: A proposal with weaknesses that are not offset by strengths.

• Poor:A proposaloflow merit, with oneor moremajor weaknesses that areexpected to be difficult to 

correct or are not correctable, or that does not represent a credible response to thesolicitation.

The panel’s final rankings and rationale for the rankings will be presented to the Source Selection Official (SSO).

4.1.7 Selection

The SSO has the final authority for choosing specific proposals for contract negotiation. In making such a 

determination, the SSO, at their discretion, may consider additional programmatic balance factors such as portfolio 

balance across NASA programs, centers, and mission directorates, available funding, first-time
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 4: Method of Selection and EvaluationCriteria

40

awardees/participants, historically underrepresented communities, and geographic distribution. Under this 

solicitation, NASA will not accept more than 1 complete proposal package from any one firm to ensure the 

broadest participation of the small business community. NASA does not plan to make more than one Phase I award 

to any offeror. The list of proposals selected for negotiation will be posted on the NASA SBIR/STTR website

(https://sbir.nasa.gov/). All selected firms will receive a formal notification letter.

Each proposal package selected for negotiation by the SSO will be evaluated by the Contracting Officer to 

determine eligibility for an award. The terms and conditions of the contract will be negotiated based on the SBIR 

Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 638), FAR, and NASA FAR requirements, and a responsibility determination will be 

made. The Contracting Officer will advise the SSO on matters pertaining to price analysis and responsibility 

determinations. A Contracting Officer will negotiate an appropriate contract to be signed by both parties before 

work begins.

4.2 Phase II Evaluation Process and Evaluation Criteria

Only Offerors selected for Phase I awards will be eligible to submit Phase II proposals. Phase II proposals will be 

evaluated and selected in accordance with the evaluation and selection criteria identified in Section 4.2 below. 

NASA will conduct a multi-stage review process of all complete Phase II proposal packages.

4.2.1 Administrative Review

All proposal packages received by the published deadline will undergo an administrative review to determine if the 

proposal package meets the requirements found in Chapter 3 (Proposal Preparation Instructions and 

Requirements), and Chapter 6 (Submission of Proposals). A proposal package that is found to be non-compliant 

with any requirements in Chapters 3 and 6 may be rejected and no further evaluations will occur. The offeror will 

be notified of NASA’s decision to eliminate the proposal package from consideration and the reason(s) for the 

decision. Incomplete proposal packages will be automatically rejected, and no further evaluations will occur.

4.2.2 Evaluation Criteria

The following four evaluation factors will be used in the review of the proposals that have met the administrative 

and responsiveness requirements of this solicitation.

Factor 1: Commercial Potential

The assessment of the commercial potential of the Phase II proposal will be evaluated to determine its 

effectiveness in achieving the following:

• Description of the commercial potential through a quantitative market analysis to include the market 

segmentationandthecommercial TotalAddressableMarket(TAM),theproposedinnovation interms of 

target customers, and the competitive landscape, by identifying potential competitors.

• Descriptionof commercial intent toinclude thedevelopment timelinerequiredtobring the innovation to 

market, the applicable business model (spin-out, license, OEM, etc.) the offeror would use, and the risks 

to the commercial development plan and what mitigations,if any, can be taken over a reasonable period 

of time to lessen the risks.

• Description ofthe commercial capability to include the current and future company capitalization efforts.

• DescriptionoftheOfferor's approachtoprotectingany IntellectualProperty that results from 

the innovation.

• Description of any assistance or mentoring the company intends topursue.

• Evidence of follow-on funding support.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 4: Method of Selection and EvaluationCriteria

41

Factor 2: Scientific/Technical Merit and Feasibility

The Phase II proposal will be evaluated to determine its effectiveness in achieving the following criteria:

• The technical approachandthe anticipatedagency andcommercialbenefits may be derived from the 

research.

• The adequacy oftheproposedeffort, and its relationship tothefulfillment ofrequirements ofthe 

research topic.

• The soundness andtechnicalmerit oftheproposedapproach anditsincrementalprogress toward a 

topic solution.

• The proposal should describe an innovative and feasible technical approach to the identified NASA 

problemarea/topic. Specificobjectives,approaches,andplans fordevelopingandverifying the innovation 

must demonstrate a clear understanding of the problem and the current state of the art. The degree of 

understanding and significance of the risks involved in the proposed innovation must bepresented.

Factor 3: Experience, Qualifications, and Facilities

The qualifications of the proposed Principal Investigators/Project Managers, supporting staff and consultants, and 

subcontractors, if any, will be evaluated for consistency with the research effort and their degree of commitment 

and availability. The proposed necessary instrumentation or facilities required to accomplish the proposed 

technical approach will be evaluated to determine if they are adequate. In addition, any proposed reliance on 

external sources, such as Government-furnished equipment or facilities (section 3.6.3.4 and part 8 of the technical 

proposal), will be evaluated for reasonableness.

Factor 4: Effectiveness of the Proposed Work Plan

The proposed work plan should describe the methods planned to achieve each objective or task in detail. The work 

plan will be evaluated for comprehensiveness, including its proposed effective use of available resources and 

approach to labor distribution. In addition, the work plan’s proposed schedule for meeting the Phase I objectives 

will be evaluated to make sure they are reasonable and consistent with the proposed technical approach.

4.2.3 Scoring of Factors and Weighting to Determine the Most Highly RatedProposals

• Factor 1: Commercialization Potential is worth a maximum of 30 points.

• Factor 2: Scientific/Technical Merit and Feasibility is wortha maximum of 30 points.

• Factor 3: Experience, Qualifications, and Facilities are worth a maximum of 20 points.

• Factor 4: Effectiveness of the Proposed Work Plan is worth a maximum of 20 points.

The sum of the scores for Factors 1, 2, 3, and 4 will constitute the proposal’s total score.

4.2.4 Price Evaluation

Utilizing the procedures set forth in FAR 15.404-1, the offeror’s budget proposal form will be evaluated to 

determine whether the offeror’s proposed pricing is fair and reasonable. NASA will only make an award when the 

price is fair and reasonable and approved by the NASA Contracting Officer. If a proposal is selected for award,

the Contracting Officer will review all the evaluations for the proposal and will address any pricing issues identified 

during the negotiation of the final award.

4.2.5 Panel Review

A panel made up of NASA subject matter experts and 3rd party reviewers will review the proposals in each topic 

area and assign adjectival ratings using the evaluation criteria outlined in 4.2.2 and programmatic investment 

considerations (e.g., first-time awardee, portfolio balance across technologies, other strategic considerations, etc.).
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 4: Method of Selection and EvaluationCriteria

42

The possible adjectival ratings for the Panel Review are:

• Excellent: A thoroughandcompellingproposal ofexceptional meritthat fully respondstothe objectives of 

the solicitation.

• Very Good: A competent proposal of high merit that fully responds to the objectives ofthe solicitation.

• Good:Acompetent proposalofmoderatemerit thatrepresents a credibleresponse tothe solicitation. As 

a whole, any weaknesses not offset by strengths do not significantly detract from theresponse.

• Fair: A proposal with weaknesses that are not offset by strengths.

• Poor:A proposaloflow merit, withone or moremajor weaknesses that areexpected to be difficult to 

correct or are not correctable, or that does not represent a credible response to thesolicitation.

The panel’s final rankings and rationale for the rankings will be presented to the SSO.

4.2.6 Selection

The SSO has the final authority for choosing specific proposals for contract negotiation. In making such a 

determination, the SSO, at their discretion, may consider additional programmatic balance factors such as portfolio 

balance across NASA programs, centers, and mission directorates, available funding, first-time 

awardees/participants, historically underrepresented communities, and geographic distribution. The list of 

proposals selected for negotiation will be posted on the NASA SBIR/STTR website (https://sbir.nasa.gov/). All firms 

will receive a formal notification letter.

Each proposal package selected for negotiation by the SSO will be evaluated by the Contracting Officer to 

determine eligibility for an award. The terms and conditions of the contract will be negotiated based on the SBIR 

Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 638), FAR, and NASA FAR requirements, and a responsibility determination will be 

made. The Contracting Officer will advise the SSO on matters pertaining to price analysis and responsibility 

determinations. A Contracting Officer will negotiate an appropriate contract to be signed by both parties before 

work begins.

4.3.1 Denial of Awards

Pursuant to the SBIR and STTR Extension Act of 2022, NASA will not make an award under the SBIR or STTR 

program to an offeror if NASA has determined that:

• The small business concern submitting the proposal or application

o has an owner or covered individual that is a party to a malign foreign talent recruitment program;

o has a business entity, parent company, orsubsidiary locatedin thePeople’s Republic of China or 

another foreign country of concern; or

o has an owner or covered individual that has a foreign affiliation with aresearch institution 

located in the People’s Republic of China or another foreign country of concern; and

• The relationships and commitments describedabove

o interfere with the capacity for activities supported by NASA to be carriedout;

o create duplication with activities supported byNASA;

o present concerns about conflicts ofinterest;

o were not appropriately disclosed to NASA;

o violate Federal law or terms and conditions of NASA; or

o pose a risk to nationalsecurity.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

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43

Note: Sections 4.3, 4.4, and 4.5 below apply to both the Phase I and Phase II evaluation process.

4.3 Technical and Business Assistance (TABA)

NASA conducts a separate review of all offeror requests for TABA after the SSO makes the final selection of 

projects to enter negotiation for a contract.The SBIR/STTR PMOconducts the initial evaluation of the TABA 

request to determine if the request meets the requirements found in sections 1.9, 3.5.3.8, and 3.6.3.7. The 

Contracting Officer makes the final determination to allow TABA funding under the contract.

The review of TABA requests will include the following:

• A review to determine if the awardee will use the funding for approved services;

• Verification of TABA vendors by reviewing the vendor information and websites;

• A review ofthe vendor(s) expertise and knowledge in providing technical and business assistance services;

• A review of the costs to be provided to the TABAvendor(s);

• Proposedplans tosubmit adeliverablesummarizingtheoutcomeofthe TABA services with expected 

supporting information;

• Verification that TABA costs are reflected in the budget forms; and

• Verification that there is no evidence of Fraud, Waste, and Abuse of thesefunds.

4.4. Access to Proprietary Data by Non-NASAPersonnel

4.4.1 Non-NASA Reviewers

In addition to utilizing Government personnel in the review process, NASA, at its discretion and in accordance with 

NFS section 1815.207-71, may utilize individuals from outside the Government with highly specialized expertise 

not found in the Government. Qualified experts outside of NASA (including industry, academia, and other 

Government agencies) may assist in performing evaluations as required to determine or verify the merit of a 

complete proposal package. Any decision to obtain an outside evaluation shall take into consideration 

requirements for the avoidance of organizational or personal conflicts of interest and any competitive relationship 

between the prospective contractor or subcontractor(s) and the prospective outside evaluator. Any such 

evaluation will be under agreement with the evaluator that the information (data) contained in the complete 

proposal package will be used only for evaluation purposes and will not be further disclosed.

4.4.2 Non-NASA Access to Confidential BusinessInformation

In the conduct of processing proposal packages and potential contract administration, the Agency may find it 

necessary to provide access to the complete proposal package to other NASA contractors and subcontractor 

personnel. NASA will provide access to such data only under contracts that contain an appropriate NFS 1852.237-

72 Access to Sensitive Information clause that requires the contractors to fully protect the information from 

unauthorized use or disclosure and where the contractor has implemented the appropriate processes and 

procedures to protect the information.

4.5 Notification and Feedback to Offerors

After selections for negotiation have been made, a notification will be sent to the designated Business Official 

identified in the complete proposal package according to the processes described below.

Note: Due to the competitive nature of the program and limited funding, recommendations to fund or not fund a 

proposal will be final. Any notification or feedback provided to the offeror is not an opportunity to reopen 

selection decisions or obtain additional information regarding the final decision. Feedback will be provided as-is
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

Section 4: Method of Selection and EvaluationCriteria

44

and will not be supplemented with additionalfeedback. Offerors are encouraged to use thewritten feedback to 

understand the outcome andreview their proposal package and develop plans to strengthen future proposals.

Note: Thisfinal feedback isseparate from thefeedback that may be provided to firmsselected for the Question 

& Answer session noted in section 4.1.6. Only Offerors invited to present at the Question & Answer may revise 

their slide decks after receiving that feedback.

4.5.1 Providing Feedback

NASA uses a two-stage process to notify offerors of the outcome of their completed proposal package.

1. Atthe timeofthe public selectionannouncement,thedesignated Business Official will receive an email 

indicating the outcome of the completed proposal package.

2. NASA will automatically email proposal feedback to the designated Business Official within 60 days of the 

announcement of selection for negotiation. If you have not received your feedback within 60 days after 

the announcement,contacttheNASASBIR/STTRProgramSupportOfficeat agency-sbir@mail.nasa.gov. If 

an offeror wants feedback at any time within this announcement window, the request should be 

submittedin writing within 5 calendar days ofreceipt ofnotification, and submitted to the SBIR help desk

agency-sbir@mail.nasa.gov. Due to the sensitivity of this feedback, NASA will only provide feedback to 

the designated Business Official and will not provide this to any other parties.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation

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5. Considerations

5.1 Requirement for Contracting

Upon award of a Funding Agreement, the awardee will be required to make certain legal commitments through 

acceptance of numerous clauses in Funding Agreements. The outline that follows is illustrative of the types of 

clauses to which the contractor would be committed. This list is not a complete list of clauses to be included in 

Funding Agreements and is not the specific wording of such clauses. Copies of the complete terms and conditions 

are available by following the links in Appendix C.

1. Standards ofWork.Work performedunder the FundingAgreementmust conformtohighprofessional 

standards.

2. Inspection.Work performedunder theFundingAgreementis subjecttoGovernmentinspection and 

evaluation at all times.

3. ExaminationofRecords. The Comptroller General (or aduly authorizedrepresentative)must have the right to 

examine any pertinent records of the awardee involving transactions related to this FundingAgreement.

4. Default. The Federal Governmentmay terminate theFunding Agreementifthecontractor fails to perform the 

work contracted.

5. Termination for Convenience. The Funding Agreement may be terminated at any time by the Federal 

Governmentifit deems termination to be in its bestinterest, in whichcasethe awardee will be compensated 

for work performed and for reasonable termination costs.

6. Disputes. Any disputeconcerning theFundingAgreementthat cannot beresolved by agreement must be 

decided by the contracting officer with the right of appeal.

7. ContractWorkHours. The awardeemay notrequire an employee to workmorethan 8 hours aday or 40 

hours a week unless the employee is compensated accordingly (for example, overtime pay).

8. EqualOpportunity.Theawardee will not discriminateagainst any employeeor applicant for employment 

because of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

9. Equal Opportunity forVeterans. Theawardeewill not discriminateagainst any employeeor application for 

employment because he or she is a disabled veteran or veteran of the Vietnam era.

10. EqualOpportunity for PeoplewithDisabilities. The awardee willnot discriminateagainst any employee or 

applicant for employment because he or she is physically or intellectually disabled.

11. Officials NottoBenefit. No FederalGovernment officialmay benefit personally from the SBIR Funding 

Agreement.

12. CovenantAgainst ContingentFees.No personor agency has been employed to solicit orsecure the Funding 

Agreement upon an understanding for compensation except bona fide employees or commercial agencies 

maintained by the awardee for the purpose of securing business.

13. Gratuities.TheFundingAgreementmay be terminatedby the FederalGovernmentif any gratuities have been 

offered to any representative of the Government to secure the award.

14. PatentInfringement.The awardeemustreport each notice or claimof patent infringement based on the 

performance of the Funding Agreement.

15. American-MadeEquipment andProducts.Whenpurchasingequipment or aproduct under the SBIR Funding 

Agreement, purchase only American-made items whenever possible.

To simplify making contract awards and to reduce processing time, all contractors selected for contracts will 

ensure that:

1. All informationinyour completeproposalpackage is current(e.g., your address has not changed, the 

proposed PI is the same, etc.). If changes have occurred since the submittal of your proposal, notify

the Contracting Officer immediately.

2. Your firm is registered with System for Award Management (SAM) (section2.2).

3. Your firm complies with the FAR 52.222-37 Employment Reports on Special Disabled Veterans, Veterans of 

the VietnamEra, andOther Eligible Veterans (VETS-4212)requirement(SeeAppendixD). Confirmation that a
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VETS-4212 report has been submitted to the Department of Labor, and is current, shall be provided to the 

Contracting Officer within 10 business days of the notification of selection for negotiation.

4. Your firm HAS NOT proposed a Co-Principal Investigator.

5. Your firm will provide timely responses to all communications from the NSSC Contracting Officer.

6. Budget form items:

• Allproposedcostis supportedwithdocumentation,suchas a quote, previous purchaseorder, published 

price lists, etc.

• All letters of commitment are dated and signed by the appropriate person with contact information.

o If a university is proposed as a subcontractor, the signed lettershall be on the university letterhead 

from the Office of Sponsored Programs.

o If an independent consultant is proposed, the signed letter should not be on university letterhead.

• If the use of Government facilities or equipment is proposed, your firm shall submit a signed letter from 

theGovernment facility authorizing the use ofthe facility and stating the availability and the cost, if any, 

together with a signed letter from your firm justifying the need to use the facility.

From the time of notification of selection for contract negotiation until the award of a contract, all 

communications shall be submitted electronically to NSSC-SBIR-STTR@nasa.gov.

Note: Costs incurred prior to and in anticipation of the award of a contract are entirely the risk of the contractor. if 

a contract is not subsequently awarded. Notification of selection for negotiation is not to be misconstrued as an 

award notification to commence work.

5.2 Awards

5.2.1 Anticipated number of Awards

For this pilot effort, it is anticipated that a limited number of proposals will be selected for negotiation. The 

program is anticipating selecting 12 Phase I proposals for contract negotiation with successful Phase I awards being 

selected for Phase II contract negotiation.

5.2.2 Award Conditions

NASA awards are electronically signed by a NASA Contracting Officer and transmitted electronically to the 

organization via email. NSSC will distribute the NASA SBIR award with the following items.

• SF26—Contract Cover Sheet

• ContractTerms and Conditions—to include reference to the complete proposal package

• Attachment 1: Contract Distribution List

• Attachment 2: Template of the Final Summary Chart

• Attachment 3: IT Security Management Plan Template

• Attachment 4: Applicable Documents List

• Negotiation Confirmation

• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

5.2.3 Type of Contract

NASA SBIR Phase I and Phase II awards are made as firm fixed-price contracts.

5.2.4 [Reserved]
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5.3 Reporting and Required Deliverables

An IT Security Management Plan is required at the beginning of the contract. Contractors interested in doing 

business with NASA and/or providing IT services or solutions to NASA should use the list found on the website of 

the Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) as a reference for information security requirements:

https://www.nasa.gov/content/cybersecurity-policies. For more information, see NASA FAR Supplement clause 

1852.204-76.

All contracts shall require the delivery of technical reports that present (1) the work and results accomplished; (2) 

the scientific, technical, and commercial merit and feasibility of the proposed innovation and project results; (3) 

the proposed innovation’s relevance and significance to one or more NASA interests (section 9); and (4) the 

strategy for development and transition of the proposed innovation and project results into products and services 

for NASA mission programs and other potential customers. Deliverables may also include the demonstration of the 

proposed innovation and/or the delivery of a prototype or test unit, product, or service for NASA testing and 

utilization if requested.

The technical reports and other deliverables are required as described in the contract and are to be provided to 

NASA. These reports shall document progress made on the project and activities required for completion. Periodic 

certification for payment will be required as stated in the contract. A final report must be submitted to NASA upon 

completion of the Phase I R/R&D effort in accordance with applicable contract provisions. Note: because the 

Phase II proposal is due 120 days from the start of the Phase I period of performance, firms are advised that the 

milestones reported in the interim/mid-term report should demonstrate sufficient progress to warrant selection 

for a Phase II award.

A final New Technology Summary Report (NTSR) is due at the end of the contract, and New Technology Report(s) 

(NTR) are required if technology(ies) is/are developed under the award prior to submission of the final invoice. For 

additional information on NTSR and NTR requirements and definitions, see section 5.9.

If TABA is requested, contracts will require TABA deliverables that summarize the outcome of the TABA services 

with expected supporting information.

Report deliverables shall be submitted electronically via the EHB. For any reports that require an upload, NASA 

requests the submission in PDF or Microsoft Word format.

Note: To access contract management in the EHB, you will be required to have an identity in the NASA Access 

Management System (NAMS). This is the Agency’s centralized system for requesting and maintaining accounts 

for NASA IT systems and applications. The system contains user account information, access requests, and 

account maintenance processes for NASA employees, contractors, and remote users such as educators and 

foreign users. A basic background check and completion of NASA IT Security Training is required for this account. 

Instructions to create an identity in NAMS will be provided during contract negotiations. It is recommended that 

you begin this process immediately upon notification, as this access will be required to submit deliverables and 

invoices.

5.4 Payment Schedule

All NASA SBIR contracts are firm-fixed-price contracts. The exact payment terms will be included in the contract.

Althoughinvoices aresubmitted electronically through theDepartment of Treasury’s Invoice Processing Platform 

(IPP), as a condition for payment, invoice certifications shall be completed in the EHB for each individual invoice.
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The certification is preset in the EHB, and it shall be completed before uploading each invoice in IPP. Upon 

completion of the certification, a link to IPP is automatically provided in the EHB.

If TABA is requested, awardees will be required to submit TABA vendor invoices for reimbursement per the 

payment schedule in section 3.5.3.8 or 3.6.3.7.

5.5 Profit or Fee

Contracts may include a reasonable profit. The reasonableness of the proposed profit is determined by the 

Contracting Officer during contract negotiations. Reference FAR 15.404-4.

5.6 Cost Sharing

Cost sharing is permitted for proposal packages under this program solicitation; however, cost sharing is not 

required. Cost sharing will not be an evaluation factor in consideration of your proposal package nor will it be used 

in the determination of the percentage of Phase I work to be performed on the contract.

5.7 Rights in Data Developed Under SBIR FundingAgreements

The SBIR program provides specific rights for data developed under SBIR awards. Please review the full text at the 

following FAR 52.227-20 Rights in Data-SBIR Program and PCD 21-02 FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (FAR)

CLASS DEVIATION – PROTECTION OF DATA UNDER THE SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATIVE RESEARCH/SMALL

TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER RESEARCH (SBIR/STTR) PROGRAM.

5.8 Copyrights

The contractor may copyright and publish (consistent with appropriate national security considerations, if any) 

material developed with NASA support. NASA receives a royalty-free license for the Federal Government and 

requires that each publication contain an appropriate acknowledgment and disclaimer statement.

5.9 Invention Reporting, Election of Title, Patent Application Filing, and Patents

Awardees under the SBIR program are required to provide New Technology Reports (NTR) for any new subject 

inventions, and the New Technology Summary Reports (NTSR) for the interim and final contract periods. Please 

review the full text at the following 

https://www.sbir.gov/sites/default/files/SBA_SBIR_STTR_POLICY_DIRECTIVE_OCT_2020_v2.pdf to understand 

these requirements.

5.10 Export Control

The contractor shall comply with all U.S. export control laws including Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and 

International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Offerors are responsible for ensuring that all employees who will 

work on this contract888 are eligible under export control laws, EAR, and ITAR. Any employee who is not a U.S. 

citizen or a permanent resident may be restricted from working on this contract if the technology is restricted 

under export control laws, ITAR, or EAR unless the prior approval of the Department of State or the Department of 

Commerce is obtained via a technical assistance agreement or an export license. Violations of these regulations 

can result in criminal or civil penalties.

For additional information on ITAR, please visit the Code of Federal Regulations at https://www.ecfr.gov/cgibin/text-idx?tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title22/22cfr120_main_02.tpl. For additional information on EAR, please
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation

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visit https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/regulations/export-administration-regulations-ear. For additional 

training, refer to https://www.sbir.gov/tutorials/itar/. 

5.11 Government-Furnished and Contractor-Acquired Property

In accordance with the SBIR/STTR Policy Directive, the Federal Government may transfer title to the property 

provided by the SBIR Participating Agency to the awardee or acquired by the awardee for the purpose of fulfilling 

the contract, where such transfer would be more cost-effective than recovery of the property.

5.12 Essentially Equivalent Awards and PriorWork

If an award is made pursuant to a complete proposal package submitted under a SBIR solicitation, the firm will be 

required to certify with every invoice that it has not previously been paid nor is currently being paid for essentially 

equivalent work by any agency of the Federal Government. Failure to report essentially equivalent or duplicate 

efforts can lead to the termination of contracts and/or civil or criminal penalties.

5.13 Additional Information

5.13.1 Precedence of Contract Over this Solicitation

This programsolicitationreflects current planning.Ifthereis any inconsistency betweentheinformation contained 

herein and the terms of any resulting SBIR contract, the terms of the contract take precedence over the 

solicitation.

5.13.2 Evidence of Contractor Responsibility

The Government may request the offeror to submit certain organizational, management, personnel, and financial 

information to establish the responsibility of the offeror. Contractor responsibility includes all resources required for 

contractor performance (e.g., financial capability, workforce, and facilities).

5.14 Use of Government Resources

Federal Departments and Agencies

Use of SBIR funding for unique Federal/non-NASA resources from a Federal department or agency that does not 

meet the definition of a Federal laboratory as defined by U.S. law and in the SBA Policy Directive on the SBIR 

programrequires awaiver fromthe SBA. Proposalpackages requiring waiversmustincludean explanation of why 

the waiver is appropriate. NASA will provide the offeror’s request, along with an explanation to SBA, during the 

negotiation process. NASA cannot guarantee that a waiver can be obtained from SBA. Specific instructions to 

request the use of Government Resources are in sections 3.5 or 3.6 of the solicitation. Note: NASA facilities 

qualify as Federal laboratories.

Support Agreements for the Use of Government Resources

Note: Use of Federal laboratories/facilities for Phase I contracts is highly discouraged as these arrangements will in 

most cases cause significant delays in making the final award. Approval for the use of Federal facilities and 

laboratories for a Phase Itechnical proposalrequires a strong justification atthetime ofsubmission andwill require 

approval by the Contracting Officer during negotiations if selected for award.

All offerors selected for the award who require the use of any Federal facility shall, within 20 business days of 

notification of selection for negotiations, provide to the NSSC Contracting Officer an agreement by and between
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the Contractor and the appropriate Federal facility/laboratory, executed by the Government official authorized to 

approve such use. The agreement must delineate the terms of use, associated costs, and facility responsibilities 

and liabilities. Having a signed agreement for the use of Government resources is a requirement for the award.

For the proposed use of NASA resources, a NASA SBIR/STTR Support Agreement template is available in the 

Resources section (https://nasa-sbir-firmlibrary.gsfc.nasa.gov/sbir/firm_library/templates/SBIR_STTR_SupportAgreement.docx) and must be executed 

before a contractor can use NASA resources. Offerors shall only include a signed letter of commitment from an 

authorized NASA point of contact in the complete proposal packages. NASA expects selected offerors to finalize 

and execute their NASA SBIR Support Agreement during the negotiation period with the NSSC.

Contractor Responsibilities for Costs

In accordance with FAR Part 45, it is NASA's policy not to provide services, equipment, or facilities (resources) 

(capital equipment, tooling, test, computer facilities, etc.) for the performance of work under SBIR contracts. 

Generally, any contractor will furnish its own resources to perform the proposed work on the contract.

In all cases, the contractor shall be responsible for any costs associated with services, equipment, or facilities 

provided by NASA or another Federal department or agency, and such costs shall result in no increase in the price 

of this contract.

5.15 Agency Recovery Authority and OngoingReporting

1) require a small business concernreceivingan award underits SBIR programto repay all amountsreceived from 

the Federal agency under the award if—

(A) the smallbusiness concernmakes amaterialmisstatement thatthe Federal agency determines poses a risk 

to national security; or

(B) there is a change in ownership, change toentity structure, or othersubstantialchange incircumstances of 

the small business concern that the Federal agency determines poses a risk to national security; and

2) require a smallbusiness concern receivingan award underits SBIRprogramtoregularly report to the Federal 

agency and the SBA throughout the duration of the award on—

(A) any change to a disclosure required under subparagraphs (A) through (G) of section 2.3.1 above;

(B) any material misstatement made under section 5.15 paragraph (A) above; and

(C) any change described in section 5.15 paragraph (B)above.
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6. Submission of Proposals

6.1 How to Submit Your Proposal Package

NASA uses electronically supported business processes for the SBIR program. An offeror must have internet access 

and an email address. Paper submissions are not accepted.

To apply for a NASA SBIR contract, all SBCs are required to follow the steps found below.

6.1.1 Electronic Submission Requirements

6.1.1.1 Phase I Submission via ProSAMS

For Phase I, NASA will be using ProSAMS for the submission of these proposal packages. ProSAMS requires firm 

registration and login. To access ProSAMS, go to https://prosams.nasa.gov/.

It is recommended that the designated small business representative, or an authorized representative designated 

by the designated small business representative, be the person to complete the required proposal package forms 

and upload the proposal package to ProSAMS for the SBC.

Forsuccessfulsubmission of a complete proposalpackage, SBCs shall complete all required and applicable forms, and 

upload the required documents per the submission requirements indicated in ProSAMS.

Due to the limited pilot nature of this solicitation, NASA will not accept more than one (1) complete proposal 

package from any one firm to ensure the broadest participation of the small business community.

Firms cannot submit security/password-protected files, as reviewers may not be able to open and read these

files. Proposal packages containing security/password-protected files will be declined and not considered.

6.1.1.2 Phase II Submission via Box

For Phase II, NASA will be using Box for submission of these proposal packages. To access Box, the SBC business 

official will be provided a firm specific Box hyperlink via email. PDF forms are available for all firm-level and proposallevel forms required for a complete proposal package. To access the firm-level and proposal-level forms, go to 

https://www.nasa.gov/sbir_sttr/sbir-ignite/. All submissions are through a secure connection, and most 

communication between NASA and the firm is through email. 

It is recommended that the designated small business representative, or an authorized representative designated by 

the designated small business representative, be the person to complete the required proposal package forms and 

upload the proposal package to Box for the SBC. 

For successful submission of a complete proposal package, SBCs shall complete all required and applicable PDF forms, 

and upload their required documents as a ZIP folder to Box. Each complete proposal package should be one (1) ZIP 

folder and submitted separately to Box. The ZIP folder should follow the file naming convention: Firm Name_Proposal 

Title. 

Due to the limited pilot nature of this solicitation, NASA will not accept more than one (1) complete proposal package 

from any one firm to ensure the broadest participation of the small business community. 

Firms cannot submit security/password-protected files, as reviewers may not be able to open and read these 

files. Proposal packages containing security/password-protected files will be declined and not considered.

6.1.2 Deadlines for Submitting a Complete Proposal Package

6.1.2.1 Phase I

A complete proposal package for Phase I shall be received no later than 5:00 p.m. ET on September 21st, 2023, 

via ProSAMS. See Section 3. Proposal Preparation Instructions and Requirements for additional details on 

proposal package requirements.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

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Offerors are responsible for ensuring that all files constituting the complete proposal package be uploaded prior to 

the deadline. If a complete proposal package is not received by the 5:00 p.m. ET deadline, the proposal package 

will be determined to be incomplete and will not be evaluated. Offerors are strongly encouraged to start the 

submission process early to allow sufficient time to upload their complete proposal package. An offeror that waits 

to submit a proposal package near the deadline is at risk of not completing the required uploads and 

endorsements of their completed proposal package by the required deadline, resulting in the rejection of the 

proposal package.

6.1.2.2 Phase II

A complete proposal package for Phase II shall be received no later than 5:00 p.m. ET on the 120th day after the 

start of the Phase I period of performance. See Section 3: Proposal Preparation Instructions and Requirements 

for additional details on proposal package requirements.

Offerors are responsible for ensuring that all files constituting the complete proposal package be uploaded prior to 

the deadline. If a complete proposal package is not received by the 5:00 p.m. ET deadline, the proposal package

will be determined to be incomplete and will not be evaluated. Offerors are strongly encouraged to start the 

submission process early to allow sufficient time to upload their complete proposal package. An offeror that waits 

to submit a proposal package near the deadline is at risk of not completing the required uploads and 

endorsements of their completed proposal package by the required deadline, resulting in the rejection of the 

proposal package.

6.1.3 Complete Proposal Package Submission

Forsuccessfulsubmissionofacompleteproposalpackage,SBCs shall completeall required and applicable forms, 

and upload the required documents per the submission requirements indicated in ProSAMS for Phase I or Box 

for Phase II. All transactions are encrypted for security purposes.

A complete Phase I proposal package consists of online forms and associated documentation that must be 

submitted via ProSAMS. Below is what a complete proposal package includes. See Section 3 for additional 

information on how to complete each of these sections.

1. Proposal Information

2. Proposal Contacts

3. Proposal Certifications

4. Proposal Summary

5. Proposal Budget and associated forms

6. Slide Deck (15 slidemaximum)

7. White Paper (7 pagemaximum)

8. NASA Evaluation License Application (only if TAV is beingproposed)

9. Technical and Business Assistance (TABA) Request, ifapplicable

10. I-Corps Interest Form

11. Firm-Level Forms (completed oncefor all complete proposalpackages submittedby a firm to a single 

solicitation)

a. Firm Information

b. Firm Certifications

c. Audit Information

d. Prior Awards Addendum (for firms with more than 15 Phase II awards in the past 5 years)

e. Disclosures of Foreign Affiliations or Relationships to ForeignCountries

A complete Phase II proposal package consistsofonline forms and associated documentation that must be 

submitted via Box. Below is what a complete proposal package includes. See Section 3 for additional 

information on how to complete each of these sections.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation 

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1. Proposal Information

2. Proposal Contacts

3. Proposal Certifications

4. Proposal Summary

5. Proposal Budget and associated forms

6. Phase II Proposal

7. NASA Evaluation License Application (only if TAV is beingproposed)

8. Technical and Business Assistance (TABA) Request, ifapplicable

9. Firm-Level Forms (ifthe information has changed since the Phase I proposal submission)

a. Firm Certifications

b. Audit Information

c. Prior Awards Addendum (for firms with more than 15 Phase II awards in the past5 years)

d. Disclosures of Foreign Affiliations or Relationships to ForeignCountries

Firms cannot submit security/password-protected PDF files, as reviewers may not be able to open and read 

these files. Proposal packages containing security/password-protected PDF files will be declined and not 

considered.

Offerors are responsible for virus-checking all files prior to submission. NASA may reject any complete proposal 

package that contains a file with a detected virus.

You may revise a slide deck, white paper, or proposal multiple times during the open solicitation period. The final 

uploaded version at the time the solicitation period closes will be considered for review. Note: Embedded 

animation or video, as well as reference technical papers for “further reading,” will not be considered for 

evaluation.

6.1.4 Acknowledgment of Receipt of a Complete Proposal Package

NASA will acknowledge receipt of an electronically submitted complete proposal package by sending an email to 

the designated Business Official’s email address as provided on the complete proposal package cover sheet. If the 

acknowledgment is not received within 24 hours (Monday – Friday) after submission of a complete proposal

package, the offeror should immediately contact the NASA SBIR/STTR Program Support Office at agencysbir@mail.nasa.gov.

6.1.5 Withdrawal of Complete Proposal Packages

Prior to the close of submissions, complete proposal packages may be withdrawn. In order to withdraw a complete 

proposal package after the deadline, the designated small business representative must send written notification 

via email to agency-sbir@mail.nasa.gov.

6.1.6 Service of Protests

Protests, as defined in section FAR 33.101 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation, that are filed directly with an 

agency, and copies of any protests that are filed with the Government Accountability Office (GAO), shall be served 

on the Contracting Officer (addressed as follows) by obtaining written and dated acknowledgment of receipt from:

Kenneth Albright

NASA Shared Services Center 

Building 1111, Jerry Hlass Road 

Stennis Space Center, MS 39529

Agency-SBIR-STTRSolicitation@mail.nasa.gov

A copy of any protest shall be received in the office designated above within one day of filing a protest with the 

GAO.
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7. Scientific and Technical Information Sources

7.1 NASA Organizational and Programmatic Information

General sources relating to organizational and programmatic information at NASA are available via the following 

websites:

NASA Budget Documents, Strategic Plans, and Performance Reports: 

https://www.nasa.gov/about/budget/index.html

NASA Organizational Structure: https://www.nasa.gov/centers/hq/organization/index.html

NASA SBIR/STTR Programs: https://sbir.nasa.gov/

Information regarding the 2020 NASA Technology Taxonomy and the NASA Strategic Integration Framework 

can be obtained at the following websites:

Office of the Chief Technologist

2020 NASA Technology Taxonomy https://www.nasa.gov/offices/oct/taxonomy/index.html

NASA Mission Directorates

Aeronautics

Research

https://www.aeronautics.nasa.gov/

Exploration Systems 

Development 

Mission Directorate

(ESDMD)

 https://www.nasa.gov/directorates/exploration-systems-development

Space Operations 

Mission Directorate 

(SOMD)

https://www.nasa.gov/directorates/space-operations-mission-directorate

Science https://nasascience.nasa.gov/

Space Technology https://www.nasa.gov/directorates/spacetech/home/index.html

NASA Centers

Ames Research Center (ARC) https://www.nasa.gov/centers/ames/home/index.html

Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) https://www.nasa.gov/centers/armstrong/home/index.html

Glenn Research Center (GRC) https://www.nasa.gov/centers/glenn/home/index.html

Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) https://www.nasa.gov/centers/goddard/home/index.html

Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) https://www.nasa.gov/centers/jpl/home/index.html

Johnson Space Center (JSC) https://www.nasa.gov/centers/johnson/home/index.html

Kennedy Space Center (KSC) https://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/home/index.html

Langley Research Center (LaRC) https://www.nasa.gov/centers/langley/home/index.html

Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) https://www.nasa.gov/centers/marshall/home/index.html

Stennis Space Center (SSC) https://www.nasa.gov/centers/stennis/home/index.html

NASA Shared Services Center (NSSC) https://www.nssc.nasa.gov/

7.2 United States Small Business Administration (SBA)

The SBA oversees the Federal SBIR and STTR programs. The SBA has resources that small businesses can take 

advantage of in learning about the program and obtaining help in developing a proposal package to a Federal 

SBIR/STTR program. Offerors are encouraged to review the information that is provided at the following links: 

https://www.sbir.gov/, https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance, and https://www.sbir.gov/resources.
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The SBA issues a SBIR/STTR Policy Directive which provides guidance to all Federal Agencies that have a 

SBIR/STTR program. The Policy Directives for the SBIR/STTR programs may be obtained from the SBA at 

https://www.sbir.gov/ or at the following address:

U.S. Small Business Administration 

Office of Technology – Mail Code 6470 

409 Third Street, S.W.

Washington, DC 20416

Phone: 202-205-6450

7.3 National Technical Information Service

The National Technical Information Service (NTIS) is an agency of the Department of Commerce and is the 

Federal Government's largest central resource for Government-funded scientific, technical, engineering, and 

business-related information. For information regarding various NTIS services and fees, call or write:

National Technical Information Service 

5301 Shawnee Road

Alexandria, VA 22312

URL: https://www.ntis.gov/

E-mail: NTRLHelpDesk@ntis.gov
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8. Submission Forms

8.1 SBIR Phase I Checklist

For assistance in completing your Phase I proposal package, use the following checklist to ensure your 

submission is complete.

1. The slide deck and white paper for any innovation are submittedfor one topic only.

2. The complete proposal package is submitted consistently with the requirements outlined in Section 3.

a. Proposal Information

b. Proposal Contacts

c. Proposal Certifications

d. Proposal Summary

e. Proposal Budget

• Subcontractors/Consultants form (if applicable)

• Other Direct Costs form (if applicable)

• Foreign Vendor form (if applicable)

f. Slide Deck (15 slidemaximum)

g. White Paper (7 pagemaximum)

h. NASA Evaluation License Application (only if TAV is beingproposed)

i. Technical and Business Assistance (TABA) Request, ifapplicable

j. I-Corps Interest Form

k. Firm-Level Forms (completed oncefor all completeproposalpackages submitted by a firm to 

a single solicitation)

• Firm Information

• Firm Certifications

• Audit Information

• Prior Awards Addendum(for firmswith more than15 Phase II awards inthe past 5 

years)

• Disclosures of Foreign Affiliations or Relationships to ForeignCountries

3. The slide deck shall not exceed 15 slides andthe white papershallnot exceed atotal of 7 standard 

8.5- by 11-inch pages with one-inch margins and shall follow the format requirements found in 

section 3.5.2.

4. The slide deck and white paper contain all required parts in order (section3.5.3).

5. Any additional required letters/documentation.

a. A letter of commitmentfrom theappropriateGovernment official ifthe research or R&D 

effort requires the use of Government resources (sections 3.5 and 5.13).

b. Letters of commitment from subcontractors/consultants.

c. Ifthe firm is an eligible joint venture or a limited partnership, a copy or comprehensive 

summary of the joint venture agreement or partnership agreement is included.

d. NASA Evaluation License Application if proposing the use of NASA technology (TAV).

e. Supporting documentation of budgeted costs.

6. Proposedfundingdoes not exceed $150,000 (section 1.5),and ifrequesting TABA,the cost for TABA 

does not exceed $6,500 (sections 1.9 and 3.5.3.8).

7. The proposed project duration does not exceed six (6) months (section 1.5).

8. Complete proposal packagesshall be received nolaterthan 5:00 p.m. ET on September21st,2023 

(section 6.1.2).
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation

Section 8: Submission Forms

57

8.2 SBIR Phase II Checklist

For assistance in completing your Phase II proposal package, use the following checklist to ensure your 

submission is complete.

1. The proposal and innovation are submitted for one topiconly.

2. The complete proposal package is submitted consistently with the requirements outlined in Section 3.

a. Proposal Information

b. Proposal Contacts

c. Proposal Certifications

d. Proposal Summary

e. Proposal Budget

• Subcontractors/Consultants form (if applicable)

• Other Direct Costs form (if applicable)

• Foreign Vendor form (if applicable)

f. Phase II Proposal

g. NASA Evaluation License Application (only if TAV is beingproposed)

h. Technical and Business Assistance (TABA) Request, ifapplicable

i. Firm-Level Forms (ifthe information has changed since the Phase I proposal submission)

• Firm Certifications

• Audit Information

• Prior Awards Addendum(for firmswith more than15 Phase II awards inthe past 5 

years)

• Disclosures of Foreign Affiliations or Relationships to ForeignCountries

3. The proposalshall not exceed a totalof 40 standard 8.5-by 11-inch pages with one-inch margins 

and shall follow the format requirements found in section 3.6.2).

4. The proposal plan contains all required parts in order (section3.6.3).

5. Any additional required letters/documentation.

a. A letter of commitmentfrom theappropriateGovernmentofficial ifthe research or R&D 

effort requires the use of Government resources (sections 3.6 and 5.13).

b. Letters of commitment from subcontractors/consultants.

c. Ifthe firm is an eligible joint venture or a limited partnership, a copy or comprehensive 

summary of the joint venture agreement or partnership agreement is included.

d. NASA Evaluation License Application if proposing the use of NASA technology (TAV).

e. Supporting documentation of budgeted costs.

6. Proposedfundingdoes not exceed $850,000(section 1.5),and ifrequesting TABA,the cost for TABA 

does not exceed $50,000 (sections 1.9 and 3.6.3.7).

7. The proposed project duration does not exceed 24 months (section1.5).

8. Complete proposal packagesshall be received nolaterthan 5:00 p.m. ET on the 120th day afterthe 

start of the Phase I period of performance (section 6.1.2).
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation

Section 9: Research Topics

58

9. Research Topics for the SBIR Ignite Solicitation

Introduction

Offerors are advised to be thoughtful in selecting a topic to ensure the proposal is responsive to the NASA 

need as defined by the topic. The NASA SBIR program will NOT move a completed proposal package between 

SBIR topics.

As stated in section 2.2, an Offeror shall not submit the same (or substantially equivalent) completed proposal 

packages to more than one topic. It is the Offeror’s responsibility to select which topic to propose to.

Topic Title: Complete/Full Hybrid Electric Power Plants for 1500-5000 lb. Airplanes or Drones

Problem Statement:

NASA is seeking companies developing medium- to large-scale hybrid-electric power plants for testing and 

integration into a 1500 lb. drone. NASA’s focus will be on companies that have near-term commercial 

readiness (TRL 4 and above) and solutions that are applicable to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Aircraft 

in the 1500 to 5000 lb. size class. Key performance attributes include high conversion of fuel energy to 

electrical power, low weight, and the ability to run on net zero-emission fuel. NASA will provide strong 

preference to companies that build full power plant systems (engines and associated electrical systems).

The goal of this topic is to increase U.S. small business participation in emerging aviation markets and reduce 

energy use and emissions for transport category aircraft. The proposals for this topic are focused on much 

smaller near-term entry into the Regional Air Mobility market (https://sacd.larc.nasa.gov/ram/) and potentially 

could be integrated into a 25% scale drone (approximately 1500 lbs.) configured similarly to NASA’s Subsonic 

Single Aft Engine (SUSAN) Transport Aircraft Concept. ) configured similarly to NASA’s Subsonic Single Aft 

Engine (SUSAN) Transport Aircraft Concept.

Evaluation will be based on economic, environmental, and technical criteria and U.S.-based manufacturing. 

Companies should have an understanding of how their product reduces lifecycle aviation emissions and have a 

differentiating technology advantage which has been clearly shown through an evaluation of the 

power/weight and efficiency metrics.

Topic Title: Closing Capability Gaps to Accelerate In-Space Production Applications in LEO

Problem Statement:

NASA seeks multi-use manufacturing technologies and services for planned Commercial Low Earth Orbit (LEO) 

Destinations supporting semiconductor and bio-medical device manufacturing and products. Examples 

include:

● Creationof multi-usefacilities (e.g.,furnaces, gloveboxes, printing/etchingdevices, etc.) and services 

(e.g., payload monitoring, in-space operations, etc.)

● Development ofanalyticaltools (e.g., microscopy,thermal,materialresponse, bubble creation, etc.) for 

in-situ monitoring and analysis of devices and manufacturing processes

● Development of a common cargocarrier andinterfaces for manufacturingpayload sorties on various 

launch systems, for use with different LEO platforms, and with return-to-earth capabilities

Background:

The purpose of this topic is to provide funding and technical support for the commercial development of inspace manufacturing capabilities. Research activities on the ISS have shown microgravity to be important for 

investigating materials, systems, and physical phenomena, as well as producing unique highly ordered, and 

homogeneous materials that benefit from the reduction in convection, buoyance, and sedimentation that 

microgravity provides.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation

Section 9: Research Topics

59

A recent finding notes improved uniformity and structural quality and size when crystals and crystalline 

structures—including semiconductor materials—are produced or processed in microgravity. This then offers 

in-space fabricated materials and devices as an important new area for research, development, and 

manufacturing. This is very timely given the recent passing of the CHIPS Act which is a new $200+B

government program focused on re-establishing US preeminence in semiconductor research, development, 

and manufacturing, on US soil or facilities (including space facilities).

Topic Title: Earth Science Decision Apps with a Focus on the Mitigation of Climate Change Impacts in the 

Areas of Wildfires and Water Management

Problem Statement:

NASA Earth Science and Applied Sciences seek innovative and unique approaches for wildfire mitigation and/or 

water management to increase the use and extended benefit of Earth Science research and archived data.

NASA has accumulated, created, and organized extensive and contemporary datasets including many forms of 

multispectral imaging that allow for a wide range of applications. Many of these datasets are updated intraday 

or daily and are available for public use.

NASA is looking to leverage NASA earth science data for predictive modeling for use by non-expert end users in 

the areas of:

- Wildfire forecasting/mitigation, including but not limited to wildfire severity prediction and burn 

extent/damage mapping, soil moisture modeling, power outage modeling, and real-time disaster 

mediation.

- Hydrologic applications, including but not limited to snow water equivalency (SWE), stream flow 

forecasting, flood hazard forecasting, and groundwater recharge and tracking.

We seek a diverse range of innovative solutions, from simple mobile applications and dashboard tools that 

integrate NASA earth science data with domain-specific contextual data, to sophisticated decision support 

software that merges deep analysis with powerful prediction capabilities to provide insights and the ability to 

explore “what if” scenarios.

Someofthe key potentialmarkets are theproperty &casualty insuranceindustry,land use planning/real 

estate development, federal/state/local fire and water management entities, forestry management, and 

agri-business.

Topic Title: Commercial Development of Active Debris Remediation (ADR) and Orbital Debris Tracking Services

Problem Statement:

NASA is supporting the development of commercial services that can reduce the risks associated with orbital 

debris. Specifically, we are seeking innovative systems or subsystems that can enable low-cost services to 

perform controlled reentry of large debris—greater than 1,000 kg—or to better track orbital debris of any size.

Preference will be given to proposals that do one or more of the following:

• Active Debris Remediation

o Solutions providinganend-to-endcapability that detects,approaches,detumbles, grasps and 

de-orbits the debris in a controlled manner.

o Solutions that can scale to provide bulk removalservices.

o Spacecraftsystems orlow-cost disposablepropulsion/maneuversubsystems that can be used for 

controlled reentry.

o Systems forde-tumblingandgainingpositivecontroloflargeobjects with uncertain dynamical 

properties and high rotation rates.
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Section 9: Research Topics

60

o Novel methods for performing controlled reentry, such as those that do not need chemical 

propulsion to perform the reentry or enable a single vehicle to perform multiple controlled 

reentries.

• Orbital Debris Tracking

o Provideorder(s)ofmagnitudereductionin theuncertainties associated with predicted 

conjunctions of currently trackable objects.

o Solutions that can track debristhatis currently untracked—smaller than10 cm in characteristic 

length—to enable conjunction analysis and collision avoidance in prioritized orbits.

o Demonstrateaconnectionwithpotentialdebris remediationcapabilities,suchas just-in-time 

collision avoidance or removal of small debris.

Background:

The U.S. economy depends on space for critical infrastructure, from communications and financial exchanges 

to national security, transportation, and climate monitoring. Orbital debris such as abandoned vehicle stages, 

non-functional satellites, and fragments of launched materials impedes our ability to use space by increasing 

the cost of space operations; operators must monitor conjunctions with debris and maneuver to avoid 

potential collisions.

These pieces of debris are mostly trackable and can be avoided; however, they may also collide with each 

other to generate many pieces of smaller debris that are not tracked by our current methods of space 

situational awareness (SSA). These smaller pieces of debris can damage satellites and crewed spacecraft 

without warning. As described in the 2022 National Orbital Debris Implementation Plan[1], there are three 

broad methods to reduce the risks associated with debris: 1) limit the generation of new debris; 2) better track 

and characterize debris; 3) and remediate debris that has already been created.

Active Debris Remediation

Debris remediation services are those that move, remove, or reuse extant debris to reduce the risks associated 

with it. While the risks associated with most trackable debris may be remediated by techniques such as just-intime collision avoidance or removal via uncontrolled reentry, an important subset of large debris will need to 

be disposed of through a controlled reentry; this will reduce the risks posed to people and property on the 

ground for debris that does not fully disintegrate during reentry. However, there are a few major challenges 

with making this service cost-effective, such as the debris may be rotating in such a way that precludes contact 

or effective control of the object; electric propulsion may not be able to perform a controlled reentry due to 

its thrust being overpowered by aerodynamic drag; and difficulties associated with creating a system that can 

perform controlled reentries of multiple pieces of debris per mission (which likely requires a rapid reentry 

avoidance maneuver by the servicer/remover after the final deorbit burn and release of the debris object.)

Orbital Debris Tracking

Capabilities for space object tracking underpin effective orbital debris risk management. Accurate tracking of 

debris—small and large, both collectively and of individual objects—is vital to protecting spacecraft and 

enabling collision avoidance. Further, enhanced tracking capabilities are required for some of the most costeffective methods of debris remediation. Challenges to improving the accuracy, resolution, and robustness of 

tracking include the following:

• Less than 1 percent of the debris objects that could cause damage are currently tracked;

• The uncertainties arehighin trackingobjects andpropagating orbits.Theuncertainty tends to grow 

with time due to the compounding effects of atmospheric drag, space weather, and other 

nongravitational perturbations that may be difficult to predict.

• There is difficulty inintegratingheterogeneous datain real-time. Many different types ofsystems are 

used for object tracking, with different uncertainties, data formats, and possible proprietary 

restrictions.

[1] Available at https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/07-2022-NATIONAL-ORBITALDEBRIS-IMPLEMENTATION-PLAN.pdf
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation

Section 9: Research Topics

61

Topic Title: Mining and Mineral Processing Technologies for Earth and Moon

Problem Statement:

NASA seeks mining and processing technologies that can be adapted to Earth’s Moon. With new efforts to 

create a long-term presence there, extracting metals and feedstocks that can be used in manufacturing and 

construction is a necessity. The direct human operation will be extremely limited, creating a need for 

automation throughout the mineral production process.

NASA’s interests include but are not limited to technologies that:

1. Reduce the mass ofraw material (ore) transported from the mine to the processor.

2. Develop an economically feasible way to extract mineralresources, with a stronginitial emphasis on 

silicon (Si) and aluminum (Al) from anorthite, but with a longer-term interest in iron and titanium 

from ilmenite, magnesium, and rare earth elements in mare regolith. Demonstrate longer-working 

life substitutes for current state-of-the-art carbon-rich electrodes for process metallurgy.

3. Reduce themass ofreagents usedin mineralprocessing throughincreased processing and 

regeneration/recycling efficiency.

Important constraints to be considered in developing near-term technology for mining and processing mineral 

feedstocks on the Moon:

• The source material is the top two meters of the regolith (pre-comminuted rock) that covers the 

Moon’s surface and could bein any state fromtightly compacted to very loose. Its particles range 

from 1 micron to cobble size and up; the fines are angular and abrasive.

• The lunar regolith consists of four primary minerals: calcium-rich plagioclase (anorthite), pyroxene, 

olivine, and ilmenite. Lunar operations will start near the lunar south pole (primarily anorthite 

composition) and will progress to more equatorial locations with greater amounts of the other 

primary minerals. Refer to the Lunar Sourcebook

(https://www.lpi.usra.edu/publications/books/lunar_sourcebook/) for regolith information.

• Equipment must be launched from Earth (~$10,000/kilogram). Early subscale and component 

technology demonstrationpayloadswillbelimitedto 100s ofkg,while later large-scale production 

systems could be 10s of tons. The technology must scale appropriately to fit the system and 

production levels they are being designed for, but the mass is at a premium.

• Likewise, power is a major constraint for lunar operations. Power will scale as production and 

infrastructureincrease.Early demonstrations areexpected to be 100s ofwatts to a few kilowatts, 

increasing to 10s of kilowatts for early scale production scales. Available power levels may be 

constrained by day-night cycles, which are extremely irregular in polar regions

(http://lroc.sese.asu.edu/posts/991).

• Operations will be limited to daylight (up to 120 degrees C) or will occur in very cold temperatures 

during the night(-130 degrees Cnear the equator, -250 degrees Cnear the poles). Equipment must 

be able to survive, though not necessarily operate in, such temperatures.

• Cooling is moredifficultin a vacuum thaninanatmosphere.Processes thatrely on liquid water and 

other aspects of the thermal buffering of Earth’s atmosphere must be modified or enclosed in an 

engineered environment.

• The lunar operatingenvironmentis exposedtohardradiation, meteoriteimpacts, and other space 

hazards not common on Earth. Gravity is 17% of Earth's standard.

Consideration will be given to technology for batch processes and for continuous processes, as appropriate for 

the technology.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation

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Appendices

Appendix A: Technology Readiness Level (TRL) Descriptions

The Technology Readiness Level (TRL) describes the stage of maturity in the development process from 

observation of basic principles through final product operation. The exit criteria for each level document that 

principles, concepts, applications, or performance have been satisfactorily demonstrated in the appropriate 

environment required for that level. A relevant environment is a subset of the operational environment that is 

expected to have a dominant impact on operational performance. Thus, reduced gravity may be only one of the 

operational environments in which the technology must be demonstrated or validated to advance to the next TRL.

TRL Definition Hardware Description Software Description Exit Criteria

1

Basic principles 

observed and 

reported.

Scientific knowledge 

generated underpinning 

hardware technology 

concepts/applications.

Scientific knowledge generated 

underpinning basic properties of 

software architecture and 

mathematical formulation.

Peer-reviewed 

publication of research 

underlying the proposed 

concept/application.

2

Technology 

concept and/or 

application 

formulated.

Invention begins, practical 

application is identified but is 

speculative, and no 

experimental proof or detailed 

analysis is available to support 

the conjecture.

Practical application is identified 

but is speculative, no 

experimental proof or detailed 

analysis is available to support 

the conjecture. Basic properties 

of algorithms, representations, 

and concepts defined. Basic

principles coded. Experiments 

performed with synthetic data.

Documented description 

of the 

application/concept that 

addresses feasibility and 

benefit.

3

Analytical and 

experimental 

critical function 

and/or 

characteristic 

proof of concept.

Analytical studies place the 

technology in an appropriate 

context and laboratory 

demonstrations, modeling 

and simulation validate 

analytical prediction.

Development of limited 

functionality to validate critical 

properties and predictions using 

non-integrated software 

components.

Documented 

analytical/experimental 

results validating 

predictions of key 

parameters.

4

Component 

and/or 

breadboard 

validation in a 

laboratory 

environment.

A low-fidelity 

system/component 

breadboard is built and 

operated to demonstrate 

basic functionality and critical 

test environments, and 

associated performance 

predictions are defined 

relative to the final operating 

environment.

Key, functionally critical, 

software components are 

integrated, and functionally 

validated, to establish 

interoperability and begin 

architecture development. 

Relevant Environments are 

defined and performance in

these environments is 

predicted.

Documented test 

performance 

demonstrating 

agreement withanalytical 

predictions. Documented 

definition of relevant 

environment.

5

Component 

and/or 

breadboard 

validation in a 

relevant 

environment.

A medium fidelity 

system/component brass 

board is built and 

operated to demonstrate 

overall performance in a 

simulated operational 

environment with realistic 

support elements that

End-to-end software elements 

implemented and interfaced 

with existing 

systems/simulations conforming 

to the target environment. The 

end-to-end software system, 

tested in a relevant

environment, meeting 

predicted performance.

Documented test 

performance 

demonstrating 

agreement withanalytical 

predictions. Documented 

definition of scaling 

requirements.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation

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63

demonstrates overall 

performance in critical areas. 

Performance predictions are

made for subsequent 

development phases.

Operational environment 

performance predicted. 

Prototype implementations 

developed.

6

System/subsystem model or 

prototype 

demonstration in 

a relevant 

environment.

A high-fidelity 

system/component prototype 

that adequately addresses all 

critical scaling issues is built 

and operated in a relevant 

environment to demonstrate

operations under critical 

environmental conditions.

Prototype implementations of 

the software demonstrated on 

full-scale realistic problems.

Partially integrated with existing 

hardware/software systems.

Limited documentation is

available. Engineering feasibility 

fully demonstrated.

Documented test 

performance 

demonstrating 

agreement withanalytical 

predictions.

7

System prototype 

demonstration in 

an operational 

environment.

A high-fidelity engineering 

unit that adequately 

addresses all critical scaling 

issues is built and operated in 

a relevant environment to 

demonstrate performance in 

the actual operational

environment and platform 

(ground, airborne, or space).

Prototype software exists having 

all key functionality available for 

demonstration and testing. Well 

integrated with operational 

hardware/software systems 

demonstrating operational 

feasibility. Most software bugs

were removed. Limited 

documentation available.

Documented test 

performance 

demonstrating 

agreement withanalytical 

predictions.

8

The actual system 

was completed and 

"flight qualified" 

through test and 

demonstration.

The final product in its final 

configuration is successfully 

demonstrated through testing 

and analysis for its intended 

operational environment and 

platform (ground, airborne, or 

space).

All software has been 

thoroughly debugged and fully 

integrated with all operational 

hardwareandsoftwaresystems. 

All user documentation,training 

documentation, and 

maintenance documentation 

are completed. All functionality 

was successfully demonstrated 

in simulated operational 

scenarios. Verification and 

Validation

(V&V) completed.

Documented test 

performance verifying 

analytical predictions.

9

Actual system 

flight has been 

proven through 

successful mission 

operations.

The final product is 

successfully operated in an 

actual mission.

All software has been 

thoroughly debugged and fully 

integrated with all operational 

hardware/software systems. All 

documentation has been 

completed. Sustaining software 

engineering support is in place. 

The system has been 

successfully

operated in the operational

environment.

Documented mission 

operational results.

Definitions

Brassboard: A medium-fidelity functional unit that typically tries to make use of as much operational 

hardware/software as possible and begins to address scaling issues associated with the operational system. It does 

not have the engineering pedigree in all aspects but is structured to be able to operate in simulated operational 

environments in order to assess the performance of critical functions.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation

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Breadboard: A low-fidelity unit that demonstrates function only, without respect to form or fit in the case of 

hardware, or platform in the case of software. It often uses commercial and/or ad hoc components and is not 

intended to provide definitive information regarding operational performance.

Engineering Unit: A high-fidelity unit that demonstrates critical aspects of the engineering processes involved in 

the development of the operational unit. Engineering test units are intended to closely resemble the final product 

(hardware/software) to themaximum extent possible and are built and tested so as to establish confidence that 

the design will function in the expected environments. In some cases, the engineering unit will become the final 

product, assuming proper traceability has been exercised over the components and hardware handling.

Laboratory Environment: An environment that does not address in any manner the environment to be 

encountered by the system, subsystem, or component (hardware or software) during its intended operation. Tests 

in a laboratory environment are solely for the purpose of demonstrating the underlying principles of technical 

performance (functions), without respect to the impact of the environment.

Mission Configuration: The final architecture/system design of the product that will be used in the operational 

environment. If the product is a subsystem/component, then it is embedded in the actual system in the actual 

configuration used in operation.

Operational Environment: The environment in which the final product will be operated. In the case of spaceflight 

hardware/software, it is space. In the case of ground-based or airborne systems that are not directed toward 

spaceflight, it will be the environments defined by the scope of operations. For software, the environment will be 

defined by the operational platform.

Proof of Concept: Analytical and experimental demonstration of hardware/software concepts that may or may not 

be incorporated into subsequent development and/or operational units.

Prototype Unit: The prototype unit demonstrates form, fit, and function at a scale deemed to be representative of 

the final product operating in its operational environment. A subscale test article provides fidelity sufficient to 

permit the validation of analytical models capable of predicting the behavior of full-scale systems in an operational 

environment

Relevant Environment: Not all systems, subsystems, and/or components need to be operated in the operational 

environment in order to satisfactorily address performance margin requirements. Consequently, the relevant 

environment is the specific subset of the operational environment that is required to demonstrate critical "at risk" 

aspects of the final product performance in an operational environment. It is an environment that focuses

specifically on "stressing" the technological advance in question.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation

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Appendix B: SBIR and the Technology Taxonomy

NASA’s technology development activities expand the frontiers of knowledge and capabilities in aeronautics, 

science, and space, creating opportunities, markets, and products for U.S. industry and academia.

Technologies that support NASA’s missions may also support science and exploration missions conducted by 

the commercial space industry and other Government agencies. In addition, NASA technology development 

results in applications for the general population, including devices that improve health, medicine, 

transportation, public safety, and consumer goods.

The 2020 NASA Technology Taxonomy is an evolution of the technology roadmaps developed in 2015. The 

2020 NASA Technology Taxonomy provides a structure for articulating the technology development disciplines 

needed to enable future space missions and support commercial air travel. The 2020 revision is composed of 

17 distinct technical-discipline-based taxonomies (TX) that provide a breakdown structure for each technology 

area. The taxonomy uses a three-level hierarchy for grouping and organizing technology types. Level 1 

represents the technology area that is the title of that area. Level 2 is a list of the subareas in the taxonomy is 

a foundational element of NASA’s technology management process. NASA’s mission directorates reference the 

taxonomy to solicit proposals and to inform decisions on NASA’s technology policy, prioritization, and strategic 

investments.

Details on the 2015 NASA Technology Roadmaps remain accessible here:

(https://www.nasa.gov/offices/oct/home/roadmaps/index.html), and information on the new 2020 NASA 

Technology Taxonomy can be found at: 

(https://www.nasa.gov/sites/default/files/atoms/files/2020_nasa_technology_taxonomy_lowres.pdf).

The research and technology topics for the SBIR program are identified annually by mission directorates and 

center programs. The directorates identify high-priority research and technology needs for respective 

programs and projects.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation

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66

Appendix C: List of NASA SBIR Phase I Clauses, Regulations, and Certifications

Introduction

Offerors who plan to submit a completed proposal package to this solicitation will be required to meet specific 

rules and regulations as part of the submission and if awarded a contract. Offerors should ensure that they 

understand these rules and requirements before submitting a completed proposal package to NASA.

Below are all the clauses, regulations, and certifications that apply to Phase I submissions and contracts. Each 

clause, regulation, and certification contain a hyperlink to the webpages from the NASA FAR Supplement, 

SBIR/STTR Policy Directive, and www.acquisition.gov where you can read about the requirements.

Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) Clauses

52.203-19 PROHIBITION ON REQUIRING CERTAIN INTERNAL CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENTS OR

STATEMENTS.

52.204-6 UNIQUE ENTITY IDENTIFIER.

52.204-7 SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT.

52.204-8 ANNUAL REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS (DEVIATION 20-02A)

52.204-10 REPORTING EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND FIRST-TIER SUBCONTRACT AWARDS.

52.204-13 SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT MAINTENANCE.

52.204-16 COMMERCIAL AND GOVERNMENT ENTITY CODE REPORTING.

52.204-18 COMMERCIAL AND GOVERNMENT ENTITY CODE MAINTENANCE.

52.204-19 INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE OF REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS.

52.204-22 ALTERNATIVE LINE ITEM PROPOSAL.

52.204-23 PROHIBITION ON CONTRACTING FOR HARDWARE, SOFTWARE, AND SERVICES DEVELOPED OR

PROVIDED BY KASPERSKY LAB AND OTHER COVERED ENTITIES.

52.204-24 REPRESENTATION REGARDING CERTAIN TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND VIDEO SURVEILLANCE

SERVICES OR EQUIPMENT 

52.204-25 PROHIBITION ON CONTRACTING FOR CERTAIN TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND VIDEO SURVEILLANCE

SERVICES OR EQUIPMENT.

52.204-26 COVERED TELECOMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT OR SERVICES - REPRESENTATION. 

52.204-27 PROHIBITION ON A BYTEDANCE COVERED APPLICATION

52.209-6 PROTECTING THE GOVERNMENT’S INTEREST WHEN SUBCONTRACTING WITH CONTRACTORS

DEBARRED, SUSPENDED, OR PROPOSED FOR DEBARMENT.

52.215-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS—COMPETITIVE ACQUISITION.

52.215-8 ORDER OF PRECEDENCE—UNIFORM CONTRACT FORMAT.

52.216-1 TYPE OF CONTRACT.
Fiscal Year 2023 SBIR Ignite Solicitation

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52.219-6 NOTICE OF TOTAL SMALL BUSINESS SET-ASIDE

52.219-28 POST-AWARD SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM REPRESENTATION.

52.222-3 CONVICT LABOR.

52.222-21 PROHIBITION OF SEGREGATED FACILITIES.

52.222-26 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY.

52.222-36 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY FOR WORKERS WITH DISABILITIES.

52.222-50 COMBATING TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS.

52.223-6 DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE.

52.223-18 ENCOURAGING CONTRACTOR POLICIES TO BAN TEXT MESSAGING WHILE DRIVING.

52.223-99 ENSURING ADEQUATE COVID-19 SAFETY PROTOCOLS FOR FEDERAL CONTRACTORS (DEVIATION 21-

03)

52.225-13 RESTRICTIONS ON CERTAIN FOREIGN PURCHASES.

52.227-1 AUTHORIZATION AND CONSENT.

52.227-11 PATENT RIGHTS—OWNERSHIP BY THE CONTRACTOR.

52.227-20 RIGHTS IN DATA—SBIR PROGRAM.

52.232-2 PAYMENTS UNDER FIXED-PRICE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CONTRACTS.

52.232-9 LIMITATION ON WITHHOLDING OF PAYMENTS.

52.232-12 ADVANCE PAYMENTS.

52.232-23 ASSIGNMENT OF CLAIMS.

52.232-25 PROMPT PAYMENT.

52.232-33 PAYMENT BY ELECTRONIC FUNDS TRANSFER—SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT.

52.232-39 UNENFORCEABILITY OF UNAUTHORIZED OBLIGATIONS.

52.232-40 PROVIDING ACCELERATED PAYMENTS TO SMALL BUSINESS SUBCONTRACTORS. (DEVIATION 20-03A)

52.233-1 DISPUTES.

52.233-3 PROTEST AFTER AWARD.

52.233-4 APPLICABLE LAW FOR BREACH OF CONTRACT CLAIM.

52.242-15 STOP-WORK ORDER.

52.243-1 CHANGES—FIXED PRICE.

52.246-7 INSPECTION OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT—FIXED PRICE.
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52.246-16 RESPONSIBILITY FOR SUPPLIES.

52.244-6 SUBCONTRACTS FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS. (DEVIATION 20-03A)

52.249-1 TERMINATION FOR CONVENIENCE OF THE GOVERNMENT (FIXED-PRICE) (SHORT FORM).

52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE.

52.252-5 AUTHORIZED DEVIATIONS IN PROVISIONS.

52.253-1 COMPUTER GENERATED FORMS.

52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE.

52.252-6 AUTHORIZED DEVIATIONS IN CLAUSES.

NASA Clauses 

Phase I

1852.216-78 FIRM FIXED PRICE.

1852.203-71 REQUIREMENT TO INFORM EMPLOYEES OF WHISTLEBLOWER RIGHTS

1852.204-76 SECURITY REQUIREMENTS FOR UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES.

(DEVIATION 21-01)

1852.215-84 OMBUDSMAN.

1852.219-80 LIMITATION ON SUBCONTRACTING – SBIR PHASE I PROGRAM. (OCT 2006)

1852.219-83 LIMITATION OF THE PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR – SBIR PROGRAM. (OCT 2006)

1852.225-70 EXPORT LICENSES

1852.225-71 RESTRICTION ON FUNDING ACTIVITY WITH CHINA

1852.225-72 RESTRICTION ON FUNDING ACTIVITY WITH CHINA – REPRESENTATION. (DEVIATION 12-01A)

1852.215-81 PROPOSAL PAGE LIMITATIONS.

1852.227-72 DESIGNATION OF NEW TECHNOLOGY REPRESENTATIVE AND PATENT REPRESENTATIVE.

1852.232-80 SUBMISSION OF VOUCHERS FOR PAYMENT.

1852.233-70 PROTESTS TO NASA.

1852.235-70 CENTER FOR AEROSPACE INFORMATION.

1852.239-74 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SYSTEM SUPPLY CHAIN RISK ASSESSMENT. (DEVIATION 15-03D)

1852.235-73 FINAL SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL REPORTS.

1852.235-74 ADDITIONAL REPORTS OF WORK - RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.

1852.237-73 RELEASE OF SENSITIVE INFORMATION.
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PCD 21-02 FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (FAR) CLASS DEVIATION – PROTECTION OF DATA UNDER THE

SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATIVE RESEARCH/SMALL TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER RESEARCH (SBIR/STTR) PROGRAM

Additional Regulations

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS

HUMAN AND/OR ANIMAL SUBJECT

HOMELAND SECURITY PRESIDENTIAL DIRECTIVE 12 (HSPD-12)

RIGHTS IN DATA DEVELOPED UNDER SBIR FUNDING AGREEMENT

INVENTION REPORTING, ELECTION OF TITLE, PATENT APPLICATION FILING, AND PATENTS

SBA Certifications required for Phase I

(1) CERTIFICATIONS.

(2) PERFORMANCE OF WORK REQUIREMENTS.

(3) EMPLOYMENT OF THE PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECTMANAGER.

(4) LOCATION OF THE WORK.

(5) NOVATED/SUCCESSOR IN INTERESTED/REVISED FUNDING AGREEMENTS.

(6) MAJORITY-OWNED BY MULTIPLE VCOCS, HEDGE FUNDS OR PRIVATE EQUITY FIRMS [SBIRONLY].

(7) AGENCY BENCHMARKS FOR PROGRESS TOWARDS COMMERCIALIZATION.

(8) LIFE CYCLE CERTIFICATIONS.