AFRL/RX Functional Materials Open BAA

Amendment / Modification

This amendment (Amendment 02) to Broad Agency Announcement FA8650-22-S-5002 makes the following changes:

• Extended BAA Open Period: The BAA is now open and effective until October 28, 2028.

• Increased Anticipated Funding: The total anticipated funding for this BAA has been increased to approximately $500M, with an individual contract award limit of $75M. This is an estimate and subject to change.

• Added Attachment 8: Attachment 8, the Research & Related Senior/Key Person Profile (SF424), has been added. This form is required per Section I, Program Description, 5. Other Requirements, g. Science and Technology Protection (as updated by Amendment 01).

• Section II. Award Information (page 15) has been revised regarding the BAA Open Period and Anticipated Funding.

• The List of Attachments has been updated to include Attachment 8.

• The extended open period provides additional time for offerors to submit white papers.

• Offerors must now include the Research & Related Senior/Key Person Profile (SF424) as specified in Attachment 8.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) from the Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials & Manufacturing Directorate (AFRL/RXA) solicits white papers (and potentially technical and cost proposals) for research and development in functional materials. The goal is to exploit innovative materials to enable new warfighting capabilities, improve warfighter effectiveness, and solve urgent operational needs. The research spans materials discovery through technology development and transition.

• The BAA is a two-step solicitation. The first step requires white papers, followed by technical and cost proposals for selected offerors.

• Research areas of interest include:

  • Photonic Materials Core Competencies (Optical Materials and Processes, Hardened Materials and Processing, Photonic Materials Advanced Development)
  • Nanoelectronic Materials Core Competencies (Nanoscale Transport Materials and Processes, Quantum Semiconductor Materials and Processes)
  • Soft Matter Materials Core Competencies (Polymer and Responsive Materials and Processing, Biomaterials Materials and Processes)

• Deliverables include data items, software, hardware, and material/chemical samples, as determined on an award-by-award basis via DD Form 1423-1 (CDRL).

• The Air Force reserves the right to award various contract types (FAR or Other Transaction (OT) for Prototype, grant, cooperative agreement, or OT for Research), with Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) being anticipated.

• Estimated Program Cost: $48,000,000

• Anticipated Number of Awards: Multiple awards are anticipated.

• Period of Performance: 12 to 60 months for technical effort, plus 3 months for reporting, tailored per award.

• White Paper Due Date: October 28, 2026, 3:00 PM.

• Proposals will be reviewed based on technical approach, understanding of scope, risk identification, personnel qualifications, and facility availability. Cost/Price is a secondary factor.

• Evaluation is a two-step process: White Paper review, followed by technical and cost proposal review for selected offerors.

• This is an unrestricted solicitation; small businesses are encouraged to propose.

• Foreign participation at the prime contractor level may be excluded.

• Contractors must be registered and certified with the Defense Logistics Agency for export control.

• Offerors must submit a white paper to be eligible for award.

• Specific page limitations and formatting requirements apply to white papers and proposals.

• Security requirements (OPSEC, S&T Protection, Export Control) are detailed and must be adhered to.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a "Security Program Questionnaire" (Attachment 7) associated with BAA No. FA8650-22-S-5002. Its purpose is to review the security program and practices of institutions receiving research funding.

The questionnaire includes fields for:

• Applicant Name
• CAGE Code/SCL and level (if applicable)
• Name and Title of the person completing the form

It then poses 13 detailed questions covering:

• Physical security plans
• Information security processes
• Data storage locations and methods
• Transmission and transportation procedures
• Disposal and destruction of information
• Reproduction of information
• Safeguards for personnel accessing information
• Protection of Government Furnished Equipment/Information (GFE/GFI)
• Cybersecurity and network protection
• Operations security against adversaries
• Insider threat deterrence, detection, and mitigation
• Procedures for handling compromised information
• Willingness to provide AFRL S&T Protection training

An "Additional comments" section is also provided.

Bidders responding to the associated BAA should use this questionnaire to detail their organization's security capabilities and practices. The responses will be used by the government to assess the security posture of potential awardees, particularly concerning research funding. This document is critical for understanding the security requirements and expectations for the opportunity.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) from the Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials & Manufacturing Directorate, seeks white papers (and potentially technical and cost proposals) for research and development in functional materials. The goal is to exploit innovative materials to enable new warfighting capabilities, improve warfighter effectiveness, and solve urgent operational needs. The research spans scientific discovery through technology development and transition.

The BAA focuses on three core competencies:

• Photonic Materials Core Competencies: Including Optical Materials and Processes (OM&P) for manipulating photons and enhancing electromagnetic capabilities, Hardened Materials and Processing (HM&P) for developing new and improved materials, and Photonic Materials Advanced Development for evaluating technologies to improve survivability.

• Nanoelectronic Materials Core Competencies: Focusing on Nanoscale Transport Materials and Processes (NTM&P) for electronics-based C4ISR applications and Quantum Semiconductor Materials and Processes (QSM&P) for sensors and electronics exploiting quantum effects.

• Soft Matter Materials Core Competencies: Including Polymer and Responsive Materials and Processing (PRM&P) for stimuli-responsive materials and devices, and Biomaterials Materials and Processes (BM&P) for developing materials to protect assets and enable airman performance. Deliverables will include data items, software, hardware (prototypes), and material/chemical samples, as determined on an award-by-award basis via Contract Data Requirements Lists (CDRLs).

• Contract Type: The Air Force reserves the right to award various contract types, including FAR or Other Transaction (OT) for Prototype, grant, cooperative agreement, or OT for Research. Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) is anticipated.

• Estimated Program Cost: $48,000,000

• Anticipated Number of Awards: Multiple awards are anticipated.

• Period of Performance: 12 to 60 months per award, plus 3 months for reporting.

• Two-Step Process:

  • Step 1 (White Paper): Due by October 28, 2026, 3:00 PM local time. White papers should include a Quad Chart and Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) cost. Review is anticipated to take 30 working days.
  • Step 2 (Proposal): To be provided via Request for Proposals (RFPs) to offerors whose white papers are selected.

• Evaluation Criteria: White papers will be reviewed for technical approach, research interest to the Government, and funding availability. Proposals will be evaluated on technical merit (primary) and cost/price (secondary).

• Eligible Offeror: Unrestricted solicitation. Small businesses are encouraged to propose.

• Cost Sharing: Not required.

• Foreign Participation: AFRL may exclude foreign participation at the prime contractor level.

• BAA Open Period: Effective until October 28, 2026.

• Security: Classification up to SECRET may be required.

• Export Control: Information may be subject to ITAR or EAR. A Certified DD Form 2345 may be required.

• Data Rights: The Government generally seeks unlimited rights in noncommercial technical data and computer software developed with Government funds.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a "Proposal Adequacy Checklist" intended to guide offerors in preparing their proposals, specifically focusing on cost and pricing data requirements as outlined in FAR 15.408, Table 15-2, and DFARS 252.215-7009. It serves as a self-assessment tool for bidders to ensure all necessary cost-related information is included and properly presented.

• General Instructions: Covers requirements for the first page of the proposal, identification of government-furnished material, notifications of noncompliance with Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), and disclosure of activities impacting costs.
• Cost Elements: Details requirements for certified cost or pricing data, judgmental factors, mathematical methods, contingencies, cost estimating relationships, total cost summaries, incurred costs, and forward pricing rate agreements.
• Subcontracts: Addresses identification of subcontractor proposals, subcontract pricing considerations, and price/cost analysis for subcontracts.
• Exceptions to Certified Cost or Pricing Data: Outlines requirements for submitting exceptions for commercial items, including identification of item type, basis for claim, and classification of modifications.
• Interorganizational Transfers: Specifies requirements for proposals involving inter-organizational transfers at cost or price.
• Direct Labor: Details requirements for time-phased breakdowns of labor hours, rates, and costs, as well as Basis of Estimates (BOEs) for labor.
• Indirect Costs: Covers the basis of estimate for proposed indirect costs and how they are applied.
• Other Costs: Includes requirements for other direct costs, travel, royalties, and facilities capital cost of money.
• Formats for Submission of Line Item Summaries: Specifies the required formats for cost element breakdowns, modifications, and price revisions.
• Other: Addresses requirements for incentive contract types, economic price adjustments, and performance-based payments.
• Excessive Pass-through Charges: Details requirements for identifying subcontract effort when more than 70% of the total cost of work is subcontracted.

This checklist is crucial for bidders to ensure their proposals meet the government's stringent requirements for cost and pricing data. By using this checklist, offerors can proactively identify and address potential deficiencies in their proposals, thereby increasing the likelihood of adequacy and avoiding potential delays or disqualifications related to cost and pricing information. It helps bidders understand the depth of detail expected in their cost proposals.

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document is a Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) that specifies various data items to be delivered by the contractor under contract FA8650-22-C-. It outlines the requirements for scientific and technical reports, funds and man-hour expenditure reports, spend plans, contract funds status reports, status reports, material and processing digital data packages, and presentation materials.

• Data Item Numbers (A001-A007): Each data item has a unique identifier and title (e.g., Scientific and Technical Reports, Funds and Man-Hour Expenditure Report, Spend Plan, Contract Funds Status Report, Status Report, Material and Processing Digital Data Package, Presentation Material).
• Authority: Specifies the Data Item Description (DID) number or other authority for the data item.
• Frequency: Indicates how often the data item is to be submitted (e.g., monthly, quarterly, as required).
• Submission Dates: Specifies the timing for the first and subsequent submissions.
• Distribution Statements: Details authorized recipients and any restrictions on distribution (e.g., US Government agencies only).
• Remarks: Provides tailored instructions, clarifications, or specific requirements for each data item, including format, content, and submission methods (e.g., electronic submission).

This document is crucial for understanding the reporting and deliverable requirements associated with the contract. Bidders need to be aware of the types of reports and data they will be required to submit, the frequency of submission, and any specific formatting or content requirements. This information is essential for accurately estimating the effort and cost associated with contract performance and for ensuring compliance with contractual obligations.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document provides supplemental instructions for submitting proposals in response to BAA FA8650-22-S-5002, specifically detailing the requirements for SF 424 (R&R) forms and related submissions.

• SF 424 (R&R) Forms: All proposals must include the SF 424 (R&R) as the cover page.
• STEM Demographic Information: For compliance with Title IX, applicants must submit SF 424 Research & Related Senior/Key Person Profile (Expanded) and SF 424 Research & Related Personal Data forms. These forms collect demographic and career information for individuals in key roles, particularly in STEM disciplines. The Degree Type and Degree Year fields are mandatory for Project Directors/Principal Investigators (PD/PI) and Co-PD/PIs. Demographic information submission is voluntary but used for statistical purposes only, not for merit review.
• Institutions of Higher Education: For these applicants, the document references the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2019, Section 1286, regarding the protection of intellectual property, controlled information, and critical technologies relevant to national security.
• Key Personnel Information: Applicants must provide specific details for all key personnel on the SF 424 Senior/Key Person Profile (Expanded) form, including current and future projects, time commitment, funding sources, and performance periods.
• System Award Management (SAM): Registration in SAM is mandatory for applying for grants and other funding opportunities. Proposals will not be accepted without SAM registration.
• Grants.gov Submission: While not required, applicants can submit proposals electronically through Grants.gov. Detailed instructions are provided for registration, creating a workspace, completing forms, and submitting applications via Grants.gov. The registration process can take up to four weeks.

This document is critical for bidders as it outlines the specific forms and data required for proposal submission, including mandatory demographic and personnel information. Failure to comply with these instructions, particularly regarding SAM registration and the correct completion of SF 424 forms, may result in proposal rejection or return without further review. Bidders must pay close attention to the detailed instructions for Grants.gov submission and allow ample time for registration and application preparation.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document provides guidance on preparing a "Quad Chart" for pre-proposal submissions. The Quad Chart serves as a synopsis of a proposed research effort.

• Template: Use the provided template on the following slide.
• Title: Project Title (Arial 24 point) at the top center.
• Second Line: PI, Organization, Intended Technical Directorate(s), Intended CTC(s), Intended Research Areas (s) (Arial Bold 14).
• Sections: Complete all sections of the Quad Chart.
• Cost Estimate: For pre-proposal, estimate annual cost in thousands of dollars ($K) per proposed year of effort (1-5 years).
• Font: All text, except the title, should be Arial 12 point or larger.
• Content Areas: Objective, Description of Effort, Program/Technical Approach, Challenges, Benefits of Proposed Technology, List of Related Accomplishments/Research Efforts/Contracts, Major Goals/Milestones by FY, Cost by FY, and Contact Information.

This guidance is crucial for bidders preparing their pre-proposal white papers. It outlines the specific format and content required for the Quad Chart, which must be submitted alongside the white paper. If a pre-proposal is selected, the Quad Chart will need to be modified to reflect the full proposal content.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a DD Form 254, Contract Security Classification Specification. It outlines the security requirements for a contract, including the level of facility security clearance required, safeguarding procedures, and any classified information or material that will be involved. This form is crucial for contractors to understand their security obligations and to ensure they can meet the requirements for handling classified information.

• Facility Clearance: Requires a "Secret" level of facility security clearance.
• Contract Information: Identifies the solicitation number as FA8650-22-S-5002 and indicates it is an "Original" specification dated 20210901.
• Contractor Information: Placeholder "TBD" for contractor name, CAGE code, and Cognizant Security Office (CSO).
• Classified Information Access: Specifies that the contractor will require access to intelligence information, national intelligence information (including SCI and Non-SCI), and may receive, store, and generate classified information or material.
• Public Release: Directs public release inquiries to Block 13.
• Security Guidance: Details specific guidance for classified information, including compliance with NIPSOM, AFI 14-303, and DoDM 5200.01. It also outlines requirements for derivative classification, storage of classified hardware/material, and handling of intelligence information.
• Points of Contact: Provides contact information for the Program Manager (Marc C. Martin) and AFRL/RX Chief, Information Protection (Geraldine Reese).

This DD Form 254 is essential for bidders to determine if they possess the necessary security clearances and capabilities to handle classified information required for this contract. It highlights the "Secret" clearance requirement and the types of classified information that may be involved, directly impacting a bidder's eligibility and preparedness. Bidders must ensure they can meet these security obligations as outlined in the form and referenced guidance.