NHLBI Innovation and Commercialization Ecosystem: Product Development Support and Program Evaluation
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), Innovation and Commercialization Office (I&C), is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice to identify qualified small businesses for Innovation and Commercialization Ecosystem Support Services. This effort aims to enhance NHLBI's product development and program evaluation capabilities. Responses will inform acquisition planning and potential set-aside determinations. Capability statements are due June 18, 2026.
Scope of Work
The anticipated requirement involves providing integrated, end-to-end support for the NHLBI's I&C ecosystem. Key services outlined in the draft Statement of Work include:
- Data and Evaluation Strategy: Developing and implementing evaluation frameworks, collecting data, establishing performance metrics, and maintaining modern tools for program effectiveness assessment.
- Partner Engagement and Innovator Resources: Supporting and enhancing an AI-driven Partnering Platform to connect innovators with investors and partners, and refining innovator resources.
- Program Coordination and Logistics: Managing logistical activities for the SBIR/STTR ecosystem, including coordinating with small businesses, managing meetings, and supporting webinars.
- Innovator Support and Entrepreneurial Education: Designing and implementing entrepreneurship programs, providing mentorship through Entrepreneurs-in-Residence (EIRs), offering pitch coaching, and supporting innovation showcases and webinars.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Anticipated NAICS Code: 541611 – Administrative Management and General Management Consulting Services (Size Standard: $24.5M)
- Anticipated Period of Performance: Base Period (September 12, 2026 – September 11, 2027) with two Option Periods (September 12, 2027 – September 11, 2029).
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5) is being considered.
- Place of Performance: Contractor's site, with virtual meetings.
- Response Due: Thursday, June 18, 2026, by 4:00 PM EST.
- Published Date: June 4, 2026.
Submission & Evaluation
Interested small businesses must submit capability statements demonstrating experience and ability to support the draft SOW. Statements should include company information, relevant capabilities, recent project descriptions, anticipated teaming arrangements, and comments/feedback. The page limit is 10 single-sided pages, 12-point font. Submissions are via electronic mail to Jennifer Henselmann and Donna Cornish. Responses will be used for market research and acquisition planning purposes, including assessing the availability of qualified small business sources.
Additional Notes
This is NOT a request for proposals and does not commit the government to award a contract. No proprietary or confidential business data should be submitted.