Appendix 26B: Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I Funding Opportunity

This solicitation, designated as Appendix 26B under NASA’s SBIR/STTR Program for FY2026-2027, invites proposals for the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I funding opportunity. Issued by NASA Shared Services Center at Stennis Space Center, MS, this firm fixed-price contract aims to advance innovative technologies from early-stage research (TRL 1-5) toward operational maturity that supports NASA missions and potential commercialization. The solicitation imposes a total small business set-aside in line with SBA guidelines, specifically targeting NAICS code 541715. Proposals must adhere to stringent proposal formatting and submission requirements, including a 15-page technical proposal limit and electronic submission by May 21, 2026, via the NASA ProSAMS portal. Key contacts for inquiries include designated NASA personnel at Stennis Space Center. The contract incorporates extensive FAR and NASA FAR Supplement clauses, including deviations tailored to NASA’s unique operational and security needs. Provisions cover limitations on subcontracting, conditions for final payment, intellectual property rights emphasizing contractor ownership of patents, export licenses, restrictions on funding activities connected to China, and rigorous security protocols for unclassified IT resources. Essential personnel requirements are enforced to ensure contractor accountability and continuity. The contract emphasizes not only technical and scientific merit, feasibility, and work plan quality but also focuses heavily on commercial potential and team qualifications during evaluation. Deliverables for Phase I include feasibility studies, proof-of-concept demonstrations, and initial business assessments, with inspection and acceptance primarily at destination (Stennis Space Center). Packaging, marking, and handling conform to NASA-specific clauses, and compliance with NASA Scientific and Technical Information (STI) policies is required. Representation and certification requirements align with SBA mandates and include attestations on small business status and subcontracting limitations. Overall, the solicitation seeks to foster small business innovation via structured, transparent evaluation guided by multiple qualitative factors and strict adherence to NASA contract management standards.