Sources Sought Notice - Intent to Sole Source .pdf

Sources Sought Synopsis/Intent to Sole Source by U.S. General Services Administration, on behalf of Client Agency:

U.S. Air Force (USAF)

Client Program:

U.S. Air Force Small Business Innovation Research / Small Business Technology Transfer (US AF

SBIR/STTR)

Project Title:

U.S. Air Force SBIR/STTR Commercialization Readiness Program (CRP) Program Support (AF SBIR

STTR CRP Program Support)

This is strictly for market research purposes and not a solicitation announcement.

The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) is performing "market search" for businesses in preparation of a contract extension or possible new contract vehicle that will not exceed one year. If no capable contractor is determined to be responsive to this notice, it is the Government’s intention to extend the existing contract 47QFLA19F0076 for the USAF. This requirement was previously solicited

47QFLA19Q0012 - Migrated (ID05180056) - Small Business Innovation Research Program Management

Support. The Acquistion ID 47QFLA18K0047 - Small Business Innovation Research Program

Management Support. This is NOT a solicitation for proposals, proposal abstracts, or quotations. The purpose of this notice is to obtain information regarding: (1) the availability and technical capability of qualified business sources; (2) whether they are small businesses; HUBZone small businesses; service-disabled; veteran-owned small businesses; 8(a) small businesses; veteran-owned small businesses; woman-owned small businesses; or small disadvantaged; (3) the availability of business sources under various strategic sourcing vehicles; and (4) their size classification relative to the North American Industry

Classification System (NAICS) code for the proposed acquisition. Your responses to the information requested will assist the Government in determining the appropriate acquisition method, including whether a set-aside or a strategic sourcing vehicle is possible.

The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for determining small business status under this requirement is 541715 Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life

Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) with a size standard of 1,000 employees.

This requirement supports AFWERX Program Management Office (PMO) in carrying out its mission to increase participation to the maximum practicable extent in AF acquisitions and the transfer/transition of these technologies to the Warfighter and the commercial sector. The scope of this contract effort is to provide oversight and direction to Research, Development, Test and Evaluation (RDT&E) projects implemented under all AFWERX Program divisions to accomplish its mission. This contract will support current and future requirements of all DAF technology, transfer, transition programs and initiatives to engage the industrial base to quickly and agilely support the Warfighter. The deliverables include a broad range of program and technical services to assist the PMO in planning, implementing, managing, and reporting critical Congressional-mandated DAF functions to AF senior leadership, OSD leadership, and to

Congress.

The Government anticipates extending the single award standalone contract, however, should a capable contractor be identified through this effort, the resultant contract would consist of a Firm Fixed Price (FFP)

Labor CLIN and two Time and Materials cost reimbursement CLINS. The cost reimbursement CLINs will be for Other than Direct Cost and Travel. The contract will have a base period of six months and two (2) three-month option periods and an estimated maximum value of approximately $13.2 million. The incumbent to this requirement is Peerless Technology Corporation. The requirement expires on December

8, 2025.

To help determine if this potential requirement may be set-aside for small business concerns, under the range of potential acquisition approaches the government may pursue, the government is seeking input from the small business community regarding their interest and capability in performing the tasks reflected in the attached draft PWS, as well as their business’ availability to perform under various strategic sourcing solutions. The Government will review qualifications based on the vendor’s responses with specific emphasis on the vendor’s ability to perform the Scope of Work described in the draft PWS. Information submitted in response to this notice is used for internal market research purposes only, and no feedback will be offered to the entities that submit capability statements.

To assist GSA in making a determination regarding the level of participation by small business in any subsequent procurement that may result from this Sources Sought, you are also encouraged to provide information regarding your plans to use joint venturing (JV) or partnering. Please outline how you would envision your company's areas of expertise and those of any proposed JV/partner would be combined to meet the specific requirements contained in this announcement.

If no responsible capability statements are received by the required due date, GSA intends to negotiate on a Sole Source Basis under the authority of FAR 8.405-6(a)(1)(B) to the incumbent contractor on the predecessor contract.

Submission Instructions and Capability Information

The respondent is required to submit its technical capabilities statement via email to James Franey, Contracting Officer at james.franey@gsa.gov and Matthew Huber Project Manager at matthew.huber@gsa.gov no later than 0800 Eastern Time 11/12/2024. No late capabilities statements will be considered. No extensions to this notice will be granted. Only complete responses will be reviewed for capability determination.

The respondent shall, at a minimum, address the following questions regarding its Company Profile and

Capability Information. It is recommended that the respondent use the template below.

A. Company Profile

1. Company name and address;

2. Affiliate information: parent company, joint venture partners, and potential teaming partners;

3. NAICS Code 541715 (Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life

Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology)) with a size standard of 1,000 employees.

4. Two points of contact (names, titles, phone numbers and email addresses);

5. Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number and CAGE Code, as registered in the System for Award

Management (SAM) at http://www.sam.gov/:

mailto:james.franey@gsa.gov mailto:matthew.huber@gsa http://www.sam.gov/

6. Small Business designation/status under NAICS Code 541715 (must correlate with SAM registration):

_____ Small business _____ HUBZone _____ WOSB

_____ 8(a) _____ VOSB

_____ SDVOSB

_____ Small Disadvantaged Business

7. GSA and other Multi-Agency Contracts (MACs) held associated with NAICS Code 541715:

_____ None

_____ GSA OASIS; Contract #_____ Vendor Pool #_____

_____ GSA FSS; Contract #s_____ SIN #s _____

_____ Any other MAC contracts held; Contract #s_____ MAC vehicle _____

B. Minimum Requirements to Capability Information

Specific areas to be addressed in your technical capability packages are as follows (reference the attached Draft PWS for additional information):

1. SBIR/STTR Proposal Evaluations Program: Description of your company’s technical capability and depth of knowledge and understanding to provide support similar to the PWS requirements with the level of complexity not typically found in other agency’s SBIR/STTR Program offerings with particular emphasis on Congressionally mandated requirements of the Program including, but not limited to, Due

Diligence.

2. Description of the company’s commercial solution offering with an existing customer base supporting FAR 10.002(b) to determine if commercial products, services, or non-developmental items are available to meet our need is readily available or if the solution can be easily and simply modified to meet our need.

3. The Government would like the offerors to utilize, to the maximum extent possible, commercially available off the shelf (COTS) solutions. Please provide details on the proposed COTS solution architecture, security, innovation in the design, how modular and customizable the software is and whether some of that customization can be performed using no code/low code functionality with government provided resources.

4. Details on current use cases for developed integrations (API) to other required systems or data repositories. Additionally, please site examples where you were not successful in integrating external repositories, and how did you resolve?”

5. Description of automated capabilities within the SBIR/STTR evaluation tool that helps reduce user touchpoints and overall Government workload.

C. Additional Capability Comments (use as needed):

D. Sources Sought Synopsis Notice Disclosures

This is not a request for proposal. It is not to be construed as a commitment by the Government to issue a solicitation or ultimately award a contract.

This Sources Sought/Request for Information is in support of AFWERX. The purpose is to identify eligible and interested contractors that can aid in developing an automated, online system of integrated capabilities to support the complex DAF SBIR/STTR process.

This announcement is not to be interpreted as a commitment by the Government that a procurement action will be issued. This notice shall not be construed as a Request for Proposal or as an obligation on part of the Government. No entitlement to payment will arise due to the submission of contractor information. Any information submitted by companies to this Sources Sought/Request for

Information shall be voluntary.

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

(DRAFT)

A procurement by the

U.S. General Services Administration, APEX 4 Sector 1 on behalf of

CLIENT AGENCY:

U.S. Air Force (USAF)

CLIENT PROGRAM:

U.S. Air Force Small Business Innovation Research / Small Business Technology Transfer

(US AF SBIR/STTR)

PROJECT TITLE:

U.S. Air Force SBIR/STTR Commercialization Readiness Program (CRP) Program Support

(AF SBIR STTR CRP Program Support)

PROJECT NUMBERS:

47QFLA19F0076

ORGINAL VERSION DATED:

22OCT2024

Post Award Document Revision History

Revision Number

Description of Changes Requested By Date

Contents

1. PROGRAM OVERVIEW 3

2. TASK REQUIREMENTS 5

3. CORE PERSONNEL 18

4. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 21

5. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS 24

6. SYSTEMS ENGINEERING VEE DIAGRAM

7. APPENDIXES

1. Appendix A: Stakeholders, Customers and Sponsoring Organizations

2. Appendix B: Systems Engineering “VEE” Diagram

3. Appendix C: Services Summary

4. Appendix D: Government Furnished Property List

5. Appendix E: Glossary of Acronym Descriptions

1. PROGRAM OVERVIEW

1.1. Vision Statement

As the innovation arm of the Department of the Air Force (AF) and powered by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), AFWERX accelerates agile and affordable capability transitions by teaming innovative technology developers with Airman and Guardian talent.

The four core arms of AFWERX - AFVentures, Spark, Prime and SpaceWERX - serve to expand the defense industrial base for advanced technologies, empower Airmen and Guardian talent, and drive faster technology transition to operational capability.

AFWERX teams internationally across academia, industry and government to develop technology, expand talent, and transition dual-use capabilities.

1.2. OUR MAIN GOALS:

o Unleash Airmen and Guardian potential to create a thriving, productive, and enduring innovation ecosystem in the Department of the Air Force.

o Solve problems and enhance the effectiveness of the service by enabling thoughtful, deliberate, ground-up innovation.

The goals are specifically targeted to:

o Improve and generate a strong Return on Investment (ROI) for the AF & DOD Stimulate technological innovation and contributions by the Small Business Industrial Base o Educate and promote AFWERX to the following groups: SBs, Air Force, other Federal Agencies, large business, academic, and commercial entities.

o Address and provide realistic solutions to Federal R&D needs o Stimulate and encourage participation in innovation and entrepreneurship by socially and economically disadvantaged persons.

o Increase private sector commercialization of innovations derived from federal R&D o Support the Men and Women that comprise the U.S. War Fighter, with the most innovative and technologically superior capabilities and ideas

1.3. Scope

This PWS describes the performance of tasks that are required to support AFWERX Program Management

Office (PMO) in carrying out its mission to increase participation to the maximum practicable extent in AF acquisitions and the transfer/transition of these technologies to the Warfighter and the commercial sector. The scope of this contract effort is to provide oversight and direction to Research, Development, Test and

Evaluation (RDT&E) projects implemented under all AFWERX Program divisions to accomplish its mission. This contract will support current and future requirements of all DAF technology, transfer, transition programs and initiatives to engage the industrial base to quickly and agilely support the Warfighter. The deliverables include a broad range of program and technical services to assist the PMO in planning, implementing, managing, and reporting critical Congressional-mandated DAF functions to AF senior leadership, OSD leadership, and to

Congress.

1.4. Participating Organizations and Anticipated Roles

For the purposes of this PWS and its Attachments, the following definitions apply:

“Stakeholders” are Government entities which have a vested interest in the outcome of a particular AFWERX project. They have an interest in the success of the project, and include, but are not limited to, Congress, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), Department of Defense Office of Small Business Programs (DoD/OSBP), HQ Air Force Small Business Office (SAF/SB), Assistant Secretary of the Air Force (Acquisition) (SAF/AQR), and the Air Force Technology Executive Officer (AF TEO). Further information about these organizations is set forth in Appendix A, Table 1.

“Customers” are internal and external Government agencies that directly represent the Warfighter and represent the ultimate users of the Science and Technology (S&T) capabilities, products, services, and ideas which result from AFWERX programs.

Further information about these organizations is set forth in Appendix A, Table 2. Additional Customers could be added during the period of performance.

“Sponsoring Organizations” are tasked with vetting, acquiring, and integrating technologies into operational customer missions, including Program Executive Officers (PEO), Acquisition Program Directors, Test Managers, and System Sustainment Managers.

“CSSO” is defined as: relevant Customers, Stakeholders and Sponsoring Organizations collectively as a group. “Industry Partners” refers to relevant Small Business (SBs) and Major Defense Contractors

(MDCs) collectively as a group.

1.5. VEE Diagram and Applicability

The VEE Diagram Steps set forth in Appendix B shall be applied in sequential order to each of the task requirements in PWS Section 2 to ensure thorough and satisfactory completion thereof. The Systems

Engineering VEE diagram methodology explains the process the Contractor shall follow in achieving the planned AFWERX PMO Return on Investment (ROI) goals and objectives. This will be accomplished by conducting and inserting rigorous levels of System Engineering to include technical collaboration, communication, and reporting (routine and Statutory) with the DAF programs & CSSOs to quantify and record a verifiable ROI for the taxpayer investment funding provided.

2. TASK REQUIREMENTS

2.1 Technology & Business Requirements

2.1.1. Technology Vetting – The Contractor shall:

a) Identify and understand AF CSSOs critical capability needs and establish methodologies for separating out specific technical requirements and corresponding technologies.

b) Research and identify existing ready-to-use or near-ready DoD, DAF projects/technologies as a means of expediting more advanced/matured solutions to meet Customer needs.

c) Ensure CSSOs are aware of all funding technology options that are available (e.g. SIBR, Rapid

Innovation Fund (RIF), ManTech, and Technology Transfer (T2), Technology Transition (T3).

d) Demonstrate experience working with the AFWERX PMO in advocating and counseling

SBs & MDC interested in collaborating and doing business with the laboratory and promote opportunities to participate in prime and subcontract contract awards.

e) Have the experience and expertise to actively facilitate and discuss the transfer of DoD technologies to US businesses for their R&D, production to meet Warfighter requirements as well as foster commercial applications.

o Possess a working knowledge of AF Technology agreements process and the roles of organizations that employ them.

o Demonstrate expertise working with Partnership Intermediaries Agreements (PIA).

o Collaborate with the Office of Research and Technology Applications (ORTA) to identify relevant messages and effectively communicate them to various audiences using multiple methods.

o Demonstrate a high-level understanding of AF agreements through research, investigation and interviews with scientists, engineers and other technology transfer & transition stakeholders.

o Demonstrate experience marketing AF programs to external CSSOs through press releases, success stories, news articles and Innovation Discovery Events (IDE) o Possess expertise in the AF Public Affairs and Security & Policy Review procedures o Develop a plan for communication technology transfer achievements using clearly defined messages to targeted audiences across multiple platforms.

f) Clearly demonstrate a functional working knowledge of the AF Service Core Function (SCF) and Capability Guidance Development Blueprint (CDGB) concepts and processes as it relates to all AFWERX programs in engaging with Users at onsite and offsite locations. SCF and CFSB documentation can be located and are available from unclassified sources such as Google and or from the participating AF Customer. Typically, Industry will have access to a generic version of the SCF unless they are already on contract. Service Core Function planning documents

(Core Function Support Plans (CFSPs) and many of the briefings around the SCFs) include classified info. The "need to know" for viewing the classified SCF content happens after the contract is awarded.

g) Provide Subject Matter Experts (SME) in AFWERX program’s technology identification and transition with a clear goal of engaging with, identify, and understand technology-oriented customer requirements and needs that are appropriately scoped within AF directive parameters.

h) Possess the expertise to establish specific methodologies/protocols for engaging in and conducting technical dialogue with all of the targeted CSSOs that can satisfy their current and emerging requirements.

i) Possess and use relevant tool(s) for researching previously or currently investigated technologies as potential candidates to consider for accelerated technology capability implementation.

j) Mentor sponsor and customer organizations during engagement of CSSOs in the identification of targeted technology requirements that will lead to the effective design, development, testing and deployment of relevant technologies to fill AF capability needs.

k) Recommend CSSO roles and responsibilities in the strategic decision-making process pertaining to the development and ultimate transition of the innovative technology(s) to the

Warfighter with a goal of achieving a strong ROI.

l) Provide assistance to CSSOs and Industry Partners regarding solicitation and general program questions and concerns received through AFWERX Helpdesk

m) Identify, research, and participate in AF community-focused meetings to communicate AF program goals, benefits and successes, assess relevant technologies to recommend and identify other potential Phase III funding sources, ultimately leading to ROI.

n) Continuously pursue meaningful additional outreach opportunities for AF technology with external CSSOs (e.g. Navy, DARPA, NASA, Industry Partners, Universities, State entities.

o) Support all aspects of the AF support program outreach and training in conjunction with the

AFWERX PMO to include strategizing and developing processes, forecasting, planning, organizing, executing events that specifically address and accomplish the AF PMO mission.

p) Formulate and make recommendations to provide and maintain a current functional roadmap for training and outreach, consisting of; schedule, frequency, type, etc., all of which are focused on AF technology gaps, needs and requirements leading to ROI.

q) q) Support the AFWERX PMO in the management of identifying and tracking

(Commercialization, Transition, Success) analysis and reporting to provide metrics clearly demonstrating ROI.

r) r) Maintain an up-to-date situational awareness of AF program policies, legislation, and appropriations that have the potential to impact a successful transition of AF developed technologies and produce a strong ROI.

s) s) Identify all relevant parties (CSSOs) needed for AF SBIR STTR technology transition with a primary focus on ROI.

2.1.2. Transition/Transfer of Technology to Warfighter – The Contractor Shall:

a) Assist in the smooth hand-off of technologies to the Warfighter and CSSOs.

b) Validate and confirm the primary focus remains towards achieving successful levels of

ROI and providing new innovative technologies to the Warfighter.

c) Support and monitor Technology

d) Conduct regular reviews and report trend analysis on the AFWERX PMO portfolio. Participate in status meetings as required to include by telephone. CDRL DI-ADMN-81505/T DATA ITEM

#A002

e) Collaborate (on a recurring basis) for all phases of the technology development effort with the appropriate CSSO team to ensure all phases of the technology development and transition effort remains on- track and that ROI is a primary focus.

f) Demonstrate its ability to adapt to the changing needs of the Air Force Small Business

Innovation Research, and Commercialization Readiness Program (AF SBIR STTR CRP) Small

Business Technology Transfer Transition (T3), MDCs, program by submitting recommendations that some of the tasks and requirements defined here be altered so the program can increasingly demonstrate ROI by more effectively serving the Warfighter and

CSSOs. The recommended alterations should be similar in scope, and if accepted by the

AFWERX PMO, will serve as a substitute or amendment to previously defined requirements.

g) Assist with the internal AF and external marketing and communication of a number of innovation efforts to include open innovation challenges, technology business accelerator programs, entrepreneurial programs, exchange programs, innovation outposts, and funding mechanisms for small businesses and startups.

2.1.3. Tracking & Documenting Return on Investment (ROI) – The Contractor Shall:

a) Generate detailed documentation effectively describing the functional baseline(s) for the technology(s) being developed and support the targeted Users plan for execution. CDRL DI-

MGMT- 80368A/T, DATA ITEM #A003

b) Provide regular and frequent updates to the AF PMO to ensure the identified project funding progress is achieving the ROI goals intended. CDRL DI-MGMT-80368A/T, DATA ITEM #A003

c) Document, track, and report AF programs performance development data, as required. Reports consist of: ROI results analysis, AF program metrics reports, diversity of contracts, contract awards, database manipulation, filtering and sorting operational PMO data etc. CDRL DI-

MGMT-80368A/T, DATA ITEM #A003

d) Document AF program results in real-time to include data and analysis generated from conducting the demonstration/experimentation.

e) Coordinate and communicate with all participating CSSOs supporting transition and or commercialization opportunities.

f) Document, maintain, analyze, and propose updates/enhancements to the strategy development process for the AF programs portfolio.

g) Create a multi-disciplined level of documentation highlighting the performance of the AF program(s), technologies and benefits to the Warfighter and participating CSSOs.

h) Assist in Identifying metrics, collect measurement data used in calculating ROI analysis, and report results to the AFWERX PMO for transmittal of AF programs and commercialization reports to Congress.

i) Identify, document, and report all known successes beyond the scope of the immediate AF technology CSSOs.

j) Provide relevant status and performance information for the AF programs technology development effort(s). CDRL DI-MGMT-80368A/T, DATA ITEM #A003

k) Capture and report all relevant AF program successes and ROI related actions as they apply to the technology(s) developed and ultimately fielded through the AF programs. CDRL DI- MISC-

80711A/T, DATA ITEM #A009.

l) Document and promote best practices within the CSSO community, both within and external to the AF, incorporate and implement as appropriate. CDRL DI-MGMT-80368A/T, DATA ITEM #A003

m) Provide a detailed and documented strategic, tactical communications plan for training, outreach for future programmatic growth and report the impact and effectiveness of prior year activities and successes. CDRL DI-MISC-80711A/T, DATA ITEM #A009.

n) Report the project status at regular intervals as required. CDRL DI-MGMT-80368A/T, DATA

ITEM #A003.

o) Ensure the announcement for the AF programs technical requirements are fully captured, documented, and clearly defined for the Industry Partners to consider.

p) Create a written and/or video synopsis documenting the results of the technology development and the CSSO integration and incorporation of this technology into their operational portfolio. CDRL DI- MISC-80711A/T, DATA ITEM #A009.

q) Create reports, brochures, videos, and/or multimedia materials to publicize AFWERX programs and interests and other benefits recorded from the AFWERKS PMO efforts. CDRL

DI-MISC-80711A/T, DATA ITEM #A009.

r) Effectively generate and communicate timely and informational status reports on AFWERX announcements and resulting questions and answers and proposal submissions. CDRL DI-

MGMT- 80368A/T, DATA ITEM #A003

s) Implement a disciplined and executable process to effectively track work in process back to the participating CSSO requirement gaps and needs statement(s) to include within the SCF and CFSB.

t) Maintain performance measurement data in the appropriate working databases and document report as required. CDRL DI-MGMT-80368A/T, DATA ITEM #A003.

u) Conduct timely analysis and prepare reports and data submission files in accordance with

AF, DoD and SBA requirements. CDRL DI-MGMT-80368A/T, DATA ITEM #A003.

v) Capture AF SBIR STTR CRP successes, develop print, web and multi-media products for communications and marketing distribution. CDRL DI-MISC-80711A/T, DATA ITEM #A009.

w) Ensure technical reports, databases and other program documentation maintains a high level of quality and currency, with the ability to review data in the SBIR program archives.

x) Maintain and update the appropriate preferred Media presence to inform the CSSOs and interested audiences on an as needed basis.

y) Verify and communicate benefits derived the AF SBIR STTR CRP technologies developed and fielded. CDRL DI-MISC-80711A/T, DATA ITEM #A009.

z) Communicate ROI and appropriate lessons learned/best practices to AF Customers and participating CSSOs. CDRL DI-MISC-80711A/T, DATA ITEM #A009.

aa) Document, track, and report technology performance development data. CDRL DI-MGMT-

80368A/T, DATA ITEM #A003

bb) Identify lessons learned/best practices from the AF SBIR STTR CRP technology development, transition and commercialization efforts, and provide recommendations to ensure future efforts are even more effective and efficient. CDRL DI-MISC-80711A/T, DATA ITEM #A009.

cc) Preparation of data to be submitted to Congress each year for the period of performance of this contract. Contractor shall submit to the AF SBIR STTR CRP PMO on a quarterly basis including the latest data consisting of the AF SBIR STTR program successes. This data is intended to capture the interim results of the program throughout the entire year, with a

Final Report submitted by the AF SBIR STTR CRP PMO. CDRL DI-MISC-80508B/T, DATA ITEM

#A006

dd) Demonstrate its ability to adapt to the changing needs of the AF SBIR STTR CRP program by submitting recommendations that some of the tasks and requirements defined here be altered so the program can increasingly demonstrate ROI by more effectively serving the

Warfighter and SB CSSOs. The recommended alterations should be similar in scope, and if accepted by the AF SBIR STTR CRP PMO, will serve as a substitute or amendment to previously defined requirements.

ee) Provide data to generate AF SBIR STTR QTRLY Reports containing AF SBIR STTR New Awards.

CDRL DI-MISC-80711A/T, DATA ITEM #A006

ff) Assist with generating and preparing presentation materials for the AF SBIR STTR CRP PMO.

CDRL DI-ADMN-81373/T, DATA ITEM #A001

gg) Document the results of the technology development efforts, electronic media will be used for socializing the program mission and successes. CDRL DI-MISC-81275/T, DATA ITEM

#A007.

hh) Record, document, and socialize the results of the technology efforts and transmitted electronically. CDRL DI-MISC-81579/T, DATA ITEM #A008.

ii) Track and provide metrics highlighting the AF SBIR STTR CRP Transition Successes ROI, annually to the AF SBIR STTR CRP PMO for their submittal to the appropriate government

SBIR tracking organization. CDRL DI-MISC-80711A/T, DATA ITEM #A004.

a. Air Force AFWERX Integration

i. Provide executive liaison between the AF programs and its parent organization, SAF/AQV

ii. Assist with Policy and Guidance development for the AF programs as an integral part of the AF AFWERX activity and broader Air Force

iii. Assist in AFWERX PMO related Outreach planning and execution as part of the overarching AF AFWERX activity

iv. Analyze data, support internal management process, and foster effective communication between AF AFWERX and the AF programs

v. Provide program management coordination and oversight in support of the AF

Ventures AFWERX processes to include:

1. Managing communications between government program management resources and participants across the Air Force and industry

2. Continuously identifying improvements in Phase I and II program management processes based on participant feedback

3. Seeking, vetting, and implementing automation wherever practical

4. Aiding in planning and execution of technology pitch and collider events

5. Collecting and formatting information for reporting and records-keeping

6. Identifying and analyzing AFWERX opportunities and trends

7. Maintaining relevant, organized, and current resources for all program awardees in the AF common knowledge base

8. Onboarding new AFWERX SBIR/ STTR Phase 1, and Phase2 companies as well as other AFWERX program participants onto AFWERX platforms and processes and performing close-out meetings and paperwork for companies that complete all

Phases.

9. Developing educational products for AFWERX Phase 1 Phase 2 and Phase III SBIR companies that mitigate and demystify common barriers to transition.

10. Coordinating and maintaining documentation, performing records management, and tracking metrics

11. Identifying, developing, and executing opportunities to increase small business engagement and likelihood of technology transition into the defense marketplace

12. Performing market research and interacting with various stakeholder groups

13. Helping to plan and execute phase I, Phase II & phase III Fund Increase programs

14. Developing, planning, and executing programs/tools that increase the likelihood of transition for AFWERX companies

15. Spreading awareness of upcoming AFWERX opportunities

16. Identifying weaknesses in the AFWERX program and recommending mitigation strategies

2.1.4 Event Support Requirements – The specific event(s) requirements (listed below) will be evaluated by the AFWERX Division’s PMO every year to establish tempo, quantity, and specific planning and execution tasks.

The Contractor shall support all aspects of the AF Programs AF AFWERX outreach and training, in conjunction with the AF PMO, to include the following:

● Small business-centric events focusing on assessing technology relevance, maturing business acumen, and making need-technology matches, as defined by the AF Program Director

● Major Defense Contractor-centric events that foster identification of technology matches, developing businesses agreements, and building the AF technology ecosystem, as defined by the AF Program Director

● Training events supporting any aspect of the AF programs, for any stakeholder community identified by the AF Program Director

● AF AFWERX marketing and outreach events tailored to various target populations identified by statute, the Small Business Administration, the

Department of Defense, or the Department of the Air Force, as defined by the

AF Program Director

● Contracting Sprints that enable government Contracting Officers to quickly and accurately award contracts

2.1.5 AFRL SB Networking Events

The AFRL SB PMO advocates and hosts Networking Events specifically targeted to identify, introduce, and counsel SBs interested in conducting business with the AF Laboratory and to promote opportunities for their inclusion into prime and subcontract awards. The AF actively promotes and provides access to the AF technology offices through a variety of different venues to get interested SBs involved with the AFRL technology POCs and potential CSSOs beyond the laboratories. In conjunction with external technology transfer efforts with other Agencies, DoD organizations, PIAs, Entrepreneurial programs, Universities, and Industry assist with the marketing, communications and brand management. Partnerships include AF, DoD PIAs, DoD’s

MD5, AFWERX, AFRL’s Commercialization Academy, and University partnerships (examples include: Miami University, Purdue University, University of New Mexico, University of Dayton, Wright State University, University of Arizona, University of Montana, and Harvard University etc.). CDRL DI- ADMN-81505/T DATA ITEM #A002

The Contractor Shall:

a) Support the AF SB Marketing/Communication initiatives and objectives supporting the targeted Networking Events

b) Understand and assist the AF SB PMO internal and external AF marketing and communication goals of targeting and to support ongoing and new innovative technology development efforts to include open innovation challenges, technology business accelerator programs, entrepreneurial programs, exchange programs, innovation outposts, and funding mechanisms for SBs and SB startups.

c) Possess the necessary qualifications to; participate, advocate, and implement the intent and purpose of the AF’s technology initiatives to grow and accelerate SB participation by incorporating innovative technologies across the full spectrum, with the goal of generating successful technology driven SBs and Entrepreneur partners.

d) Participate and support and AFRL Maker HUB Tech-Connect, Collider and SB Networking events.

3. Key Personnel

The Contractor shall, at a minimum, retain individuals qualified as set forth in this Section who will constitute core personnel. The Contractor may use other personnel in the stated labor categories, as well as in labor categories which are not represented below, to support accomplishment of the requirements in this PWS. However, the descriptions iterated in this Section represent the minimum personnel acceptable and shall comprise the nucleus of the team composition.

3.1. Program Manager/Strategy Coordinator: Provide guidance and strategic policy review and development to the AF SBIR PMO. Assist the PMO in managing efforts in a dynamic environment and recommend business process re-engineering to achieve program goals as needed. Translate CONOPs into actionable Operational Plans and assist in implementing those ideas. Assist the PMO in developing and implementing proper Organizational structure to meet changing and demanding policies and schedules.

Assist the PMO CRP Program Manager in the execution of transition and commercialization activities.

The Program Manager/Strategy Coordinator's Qualifications Shall Include:

a) Must possess transcendent understanding of all facets of the AF SBIR STTR CPR program operation including SBIR STTR program legislation, AF SBIR STTR enterprise roles, responsibility for each role, and supporting infrastructure and execution processes.

b) Must be intimately familiar with AF and DoD SBIR STTR related organizational structure.

c) Must have proven experience providing Intellectual leadership throughout the AF SBIR STTR enterprise for technology needs identification, technology maturation, and technology integration planning.

d) Must have proven experience in developing, documenting, and socializing AF SBIR STTR Program strategies and implementing operating process changes.

e) Must have demonstrated success in facilitating effective communication and collaboration across multiple geographically separated and functionally specialized activities throughout the AF SBIR STTR enterprise.

f) Must have demonstrated experience aligning infrastructure and personnel resources with strategic and tactical goals and objectives.

g) Must have experience establishing role-based training requirements and fostering development and delivery of training for various roles.

h) Must have an entrepreneurial spirit that can see and exploit novel approaches to achieving program goals and objectives.

i) Must have proven experience planning, coordinating, and participating in senior leadership (HAF, DoD) meetings, including program management reviews and emerging special-interest program developments.

j) Must be familiar with development and execution of marketing and communication strategies and tactics on a national level.

k) Must possess a bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 5 years’ experience in AF technology transition/ commercialization via the SBIR STTR program.

3.2. Data Analyst: Develop, implement, and maintain a SBIR STTR Metrics and Measures Guidebook that establishes the processes and procedures required to track the overall success/status of the AF SBIR STTR Program. Develop all accompanying training and electronic tools required for guidebook implementation.

Data Analyst Qualifications Shall Include:

a) Possess a Bachelor of Science degree in math or Computer Science

b) Must possess ten (10) years of experience developing cost, schedule, and performance metrics, preferably supporting an Air Force Customer.

c) Must be familiar with Microsoft ™ Office products and scheduling software.

d) Must possess ten (10) years of experience in a business analytics environment.

e) Preferred background in an Air Force program office environment.

f) Architect, populate, test, implement, and maintain a data repository that collects and disseminates data from a wide range of SBIR STTR activities and their results. The repository will capture data from various activities and able to tie activities to projects and their results. The repository will be able to produce re- occurring reports as well as ad hoc reports that can be used for analysis.

g) Work with team members to identify data requirements and reporting needs. Maintain a Metrics and Measures Guide that identifies all roles and responsibilities, what and schedule for when information is to be collected, the process of how the information will be collected, and the timetables for when the reports will be generated and submitted.

3.5 Other Labor Category Descriptions:

1. Program Managers

Primary responsibility of the program mangers is to provide unparalleled support to Government SBIR/STTR Program Managers, Government Technical Points of Contact (TPOCs), and SBIR/STTR contract awardees to increase AFVentures program effectiveness, enhance participant experience, and increase technology transition-rate. Support activities will include assisting in all aspects of SBIR/STTR Phase I and 2 executions:

including:

Qualifications shall include:

a) Must have a bachelor’s degree in a business, finance, or a technology -related field

b) Must possess fluency with MS Office and Google Suite

c) 2+ years’ experience in Project/Program Management (cost, schedule, performance, and risk management)

d) Must possess exceptional oral and written communication skills

e) Must have demonstrated organizational skills

2. Tech Writer/Analyst Primary responsibility of the technical writer/analyst is to produce success stories, which highlight technology advancement made with support from SBIR STTR CRP programs. These stories bridge a critical gap between highly scientific subjects and a general audience and must be suitable for public release on a national scale.

The tech writer/analyst works with AF Subject Matter Experts (SME) and SBs to determine which technologies are suitable as story subjects, by applying journalistic principals, then collaborate with stakeholders to gather proper information and translate it for the general audience. The TWA also is responsible for ushering the final product thru security and PA review processes.

Qualifications shall include:

a) 7+ years of experience as a reporter and or editor in a media environment (newspaper, trade publications, business publication, radio, TV) with at least 3+ years covering a DoD organization.

b) 2+ years’ experience working on a communication team to support the DoD, preferably as a technical writer

c) Bachelor’s degree in journalism from an accredited University/college

3. Senior Graphics Designer:

The primary responsibility of the Senior Graphics Designer is the creation and maintenance of the graphic elements of the overall AF SBIR STR CRP program branding campaign. Graphics are critical to define and clearly depict the program and processes being implemented to support the transition of technologies to the WarFighter. The Senior Graphics Designer must be able to interact closely with a variety of technology stakeholders including (Engineers and Scientists), Senior AF Leadership and Industry Participants) as well as professionals from the graphics industry (to include outside vendors) and website developers. The Senior Graphics Designer must be able to generate the concept and produce a product (to include website development, booklet, manuals, and outreach materials) that is easily interjected into the mission profile of the AF SBIR STTR CRP program.

The Senior Graphics Designer Qualifications Shall include:

a) Must possess 7+years of exceptional knowledge and hands-on experience using the latest page layout and graphics software such as; Corel DRAW!, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, Portrait Professional Master Series, Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

b) Must have familiarity with AFRL and AF SBIR STTR CRP PMO Processes with experience clearing AFRL Public Affairs Policies.

c) Must have a complete and extensive understanding of all areas of the printing process to design and acquire complex marketing products for the Customer.

d) Must have experience with the AF Public Affairs Office, policies and procedures.

e) Must have three years’ experience operating and maintaining a large format printer and desktop laser printer.

f) Possess a knowledge of other production equipment such as: GBC binder, desktop folding machine, paper cutter, and laminating machine as needed for internal postproduction requirements.

g) Must have an associate’s degree in Commercial Art Technology from an accredited College.

4. Small Business Event Planner:

Shall plan, organize and execute specialized events that identify and match needs of AF and DoD customer organizations with innovative and relevant technology solutions developed by SBIR STTR Companies and other SBs. Shall develop and employ highly tailored procedures, instructional guidance, IT tools to communicate effectively with a wide range of AF and DoD mission support customers, to include acquisition, research, test, sustainment organizations as well as MDCs and subs to conduct these events.

Preliminary “matches” resulting from these events shall be considered technology transition candidates and shall be further investigated for potential integration and deployment in AF and defense related programs, systems and applications.

The Small Business Event Planner Qualifications Shall include:

a) Possess 5 years of first-hand experience planning, organizing and executing large (300+ attendees) events to include conferences, conventions, symposiums, and training sessions, etc.

b) Possess 3 years of experience directly supporting or working with AF/DoD organizations and SBs or at least 2 years of work experience supporting a Federal Agency’s SBIR STTR CRP program or operation.

c) Possess a bachelor’s degree, preferably in a Business or Communications related field from an

Accredited University or College.

5) Tech Warrior/Operational Event Support:

Coordinate Small Business participation and technology demonstration activities. The Tech Warrior/Operational Event Support Team Qualifications Shall Include:

a) Possess a bachelor’s degree in a Communications or related field.

b) Possess two (2) years of direct experience organizing and supporting Tech-Warrior events.

c) Possess five (5) years of experience managing publication and release of Air Force products, including knowledge of the AF Public Affairs release policies and procedures.

d) Conduct studies and analysis to determine the impacts of the Tech Warrior Enterprise on transition of technologies to meet the gaps, needs and requirements of DoD customers to include combatant commands, major commands, program element offices, research laboratories, etc.

e) Special emphasis should be given to any Phase III award resulting from Tech Warrior Enterprise activities.

6) Senior Video Producer:

Primary responsibility of the Senior Video Producer is to produce success stories in a highly creative media form, which highlight technology advancement made with support from SBIR STTR CRP programs. These stories provide the insight as a bridge to the critical gaps between highly scientific subjects and a general audience and must be suitable for public release on a national scale. The Senior Video Producer works with AF Subject Matter Experts (SME), Technologists, WarFighters, Large and Small Businesses in conjunction with the AF SBIR STTR CRP Tech Writer/Analyst to validate the technologies that are suitable as story subjects and develop the appropriate industry standards and creativity then collaborate with all relevant stakeholders to gather proper information and translate it into a video media product for the general audience. The Senior Video Producer also is responsible for ushering the final product thru security and PA review processes.

The Senior Video Producer Qualifications Shall include:

a) Possess a minimum of 10+ years’ experience creating high visibility “cutting edge” video products with a target audience of small businesses, the Air Force, US Congress and Pentagon Staff.

b) Possess a journeyman level of expertise in videography and video editing, employing the latest industry standards in; video cameras, green screen, camera and equipment techniques, hardware and software editing, producing unparalleled visual products.

c) Must have practical experience with the equipment listed in the GFE List as a section of this PWS.

d) Possess 10+ years’ experience interviewing with subjects and company executives to government subject matter experts including Director Level and AF Senior Leadership

e) Possess 10+ years’ experience in coordinating with OPSEC and Policy review teams to provide public outreach and marketing of the video products.

a) Possess a bachelor’s degree, preferably in a technical related field from an Accredited University or College.

7) Operations Analyst II:

Primary responsibility of the Operations Analyst II is to provide support the AF SBIR STTR CRP PMO in quantifying the metrics from the innovative technologies being developed under the SBIR program. The Operations Analyst works closely with the AF SBIR STTR CRP PMO Operations Manager, Data Analyst, Technical Directorates, AF Centers to generate the metrics tracking the overall success/status of the AF SBIR STTR CRP program.

The Operations Analyst Qualifications Shall include:

a) Possess 3+ years of experience working with the data repository that collects and disseminates data from a wide range of SBIR STTR activities and their results. The repository will capture data from various activities and able to tie activities to projects and their results. The repository will be able to produce re-occurring reports as well as ad hoc reports that can be used for analysis.

b) Work with team members to identify data requirements and reporting needs. Maintain a Metrics and Measures Guide that identifies all roles and responsibilities, what and schedule for when information is to be collected, the process of how the information will be collected, and the timetables for when the reports will be generated and submitted.

c) Provides operational guidance to the Technical Directorates, Centers, and AF SBIR customers internal/external to the AF.

d) Possess an associate’s degree, preferably in a Business or Communications related field from an Accredited College.

8) Operations Analyst I:

Primary responsibility of the Operations Analyst I is to provide support the AF SBIR STTR CRP PMO helping the SBIR COE functional teams by managing functional and ensuring the functional teams communicate and integrate across the SBIR COE entity. The Operations Analyst works closely with the AF SBIR STTR CRP PMO Operations Manager, Data Analyst, Technical Directorates, AF Centers tin gathering data and information to support the effective execution of the program.

The Operations Analyst Qualifications Shall include:

a) Possess 3+ years of experience working calendars and effective communications throughout the organization at various levels.

b) Work with team…