U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) X-Labs Initiative
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 U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), through its Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP), has launched the NSF X-Labs Other Transaction Agreement Solutions Offering (OTASO). This initiative seeks to establish and accelerate novel platform technologies by funding full-time, interdisciplinary R&D teams. The goal is to unlock new sectors, advance use-inspired scientific breakthroughs, and support U.S. leadership in science and technology. NSF anticipates making one or more Other Transaction (OT) contract awards.
Scope of Work
Proposals are sought from domestic responsible entities to form R&D teams with operational autonomy, technical expertise, and organizational flexibility. These teams will pursue ambitious missions aligned with NSF X-Labs Topic Announcements. Key requirements include defining novel platform technologies and use-inspired research solutions, ensuring full ownership and internal control of Intellectual Property (IP), and dedicating senior/key personnel full-time by Phase 1. Compliance with CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 regarding "foreign entities of concern" and "Malign Foreign Talent Recruitment Programs" is mandatory.
Contract & Timeline
- Instrument: Other Transaction (OT) contracts. This is not a FAR-based procurement or financial assistance.
- Phased Approach: The initiative includes a preparation phase (Phase 0, 9-12 months), followed by Phase 1 (24-36 months), with potential for Phase 2.
- Funding: Phase 0 awards are up to $1,500,000, and Phase 1 awards can reach up to $50,000,000 per year. Payments will be milestone-based.
- Response Date: May 14, 2028
- Published Date: May 14, 2026
Submission & Evaluation
The process involves a two-step submission:
- Written Proposals: Maximum 8 single-sided pages (excluding COI statement), submitted as a PDF. Content must cover Mission, Technology Landscape, Outcomes, Senior/Key Personnel Qualifications, and Team Capabilities Statement.
- Oral Proposal Packages and Presentations: For a select number of teams invited after the written proposal review. Evaluation criteria will equally weigh "Team Qualifications and Structure" and "Mission Clarity and Outcomes."
Eligibility & Notes
- Eligibility: Any domestic responsible entity may submit proposals for Phase 0. Restrictions apply to U.S. proscribed parties, certain "foreign entities of concern," and individuals involved in Malign Foreign Talent Recruitment Programs.
- Registration: Lead organizations must be registered in SAM.gov.
- Contact: X-Labs (XLabs@nsf.gov)