Appendix 26A: Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I

This solicitation, identified as Appendix 26A under solicitation number 80NSSC26R005, is a Total Small Business Set-Aside issued by NASA’s Shared Services Center for the Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program for fiscal years 2026–2027. It is a Firm Fixed Price contract with a submission deadline of May 21, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. ET, requiring proposals to be submitted exclusively via the ProSAMS portal in a single, non-password-protected PDF format not exceeding 15 pages. The contract is subject to a strict page limit and demands full compliance with NASA-specific clauses and the overarching BAA, where any conflict between the appendix and the BAA is resolved in favor of the appendix. Offerors must be certified small businesses in compliance with NAICS code 541715 and maintain active registration in SAM with a Valid Unique Entity ID and CAGE code. The proposal must include comprehensive documentation such as certifications, budget, technical narrative addressing nine specified elements, letters of commitment, commercialization metrics, disclosure of foreign affiliations, and an I-Corps Interest Form. The technical scope centers on advancing commercial in-space logistics, robotic systems, and automation to support NASA’s operational capabilities in in-space servicing, assembly, construction, science operations, production support, and human spaceflight, with an expected Technology Readiness Level (TRL) progression from 3 to 6 by the end of Phase I. Evaluation is based on four non-cost weighted factors: Scientific/Technical Merit and Feasibility, Experience and Facilities, Effectiveness of the Work Plan, and Commercial Potential, each assessed holistically without numerical scoring, indicating a best-value trade-off approach. The government retains ownership rights only to data generated under special circumstances, while contractors retain patent rights under modified SBIR provisions. Key compliance requirements include adherence to security protocols for unclassified IT systems, prohibition of activities involving China, mandatory submission of scientific and technical information to NASA’s STI program, and full enforcement of subcontracting and Principal Investigator time limitations. Payment is governed by fixed-price terms with electronic fund transfer through SAM, prompt payment clauses, and accelerated payments to small business subcontractors. Performance is subject to inspection at the delivery point, with acceptance rights reserved by NASA and termination provisions including convenience and breach of safety. All proposals must also affirm compliance with whistleblower protections, anti-kickback rules, and no contingent