NSF X-Labs Initiative: Other Transaction Agreement Solutions Offering

The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP), is announcing the NSF X-Labs Other Transaction Agreement Solutions Offering (OTASO). This initiative aims to build and accelerate novel platform technologies capable of unlocking new sectors and advancing use-inspired scientific breakthroughs. NSF is soliciting proposals from domestic entities capable of establishing full-time, interdisciplinary R&D teams with the operational autonomy and technical expertise to pursue ambitious missions aligned with NSF X-Labs Topic Announcements. The NSF X-Labs initiative is designed to foster organizations with the structure, resources, and flexibility to tackle large-scale scientific advancements, leading and leveraging novel partnerships across industry, philanthropic, and academic sectors. The program will support dedicated NSF X-Lab teams with substantial operational independence and the flexibility to adapt quickly to an evolving technology landscape. Awards will be milestone-based, with an anticipated Phase 0 lasting approximately 9 to 12 months, followed by a potential Phase 1 of 24 to 36 months, and possible renewal for Phase 2. NSF anticipates awarding no more than $1,500,000 for Phase 0 and up to $50,000,000 per year for Phase 1. Proposals must describe novel platform technologies and clear vision statements for how the work will reshape a field of scientific inquiry or a sector of technology. Key proposal components include Mission, Technology Landscape, Outcomes, Senior/Key Personnel Qualifications, and Team Capabilities Statement. Eligibility is open to any domestic responsible entity, with all lead organizations required to be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM). Research security requirements, including prohibitions on certain U.S. proscribed parties and foreign entities of concern, are strictly enforced.