49100425Q0002 RFQ.pdf

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25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA 26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only)

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28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN _______________ 29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REF. ___________________________________ OFFER COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DATED ________________________________. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION DELIVER ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY (BLOCK 5), INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED SET FORTH HEREIN IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR 31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

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PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

STANDARD FORM 1449

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

49100425Q0002 12-02-2024

Alyssa Todaro 01-17-2025

10:00 EST

491004 National Science Foundation Div. of Acq. & Cooperative Support 2415 Eisenhower Ave.

Alexandria VA 22314

X

541611

$24.5 Million

N/A

X

National Science Foundation Dir. for Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships 2415 Eisenhower Ave.

Alexandria VA 22314

491004

National Science Foundation Div. of Acq. & Cooperative Support 2415 Eisenhower Ave.

Alexandria VA 22314

National Science Foundation DFM, Phone: (703) 292-8280 Commercial Cash Management 2415 Eisenhower Ave.

Alexandria VA 22314

See CONTINUATION Pages

See CONTINUATION Page

X X

A.2 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

Base Period: TBD (12 Months from Date of Award)

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DESCRIPTION OF

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Option Period 1: TBD (12 Months from end of Base Period)

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Option Period 2: TBD (12 Months from end of Option Period 1)

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Option Period 3: TBD (12 Months from end of Option Period 2)

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Option Period 4: TBD (12 Months from end of Option Period 3)

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A.2 DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/STATEMENT OF WORK

I. PROJECT TITLE

Program Evaluation of the NSF Regional Innovation Engines Program

II. BACKGROUND

The National Science Foundation (NSF) Regional Innovation Engines program (NSF Engines) was authorized in the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) and Science Act of 2022 (H.R.4346 Section 10388) to:

(1) advance multidisciplinary, collaborative, use-inspired and translational research, technology development, in key technology focus areas; and

(2) address regional, national, societal, or geostrategic challenges.

The mission of the NSF Engines program is to accelerate the development of sustainable, inclusive, and geographically diverse regional innovation ecosystems that advance key technologies and address pressing societal, national, or geostrategic challenges. This development will be achieved by each NSF Engine, a regional coalition of partnering organizations that is focused on addressing specific aspects of a major societal and/or economic challenge that are of significant interest in the Engine’s defined “region of service.” The NSF Engines program is making long-term investments at an unprecedented scale and time frame — up to 10 years and $160 million per Awardee — to establish inclusive regional innovation ecosystems capable of evolving and sustaining themselves for decades to come.

The program has seven articulated goals:

1. Establish self-sustaining innovation ecosystems

2. Establish nationally recognized regional ecosystems for key industries

3. Broaden participation in innovation ecosystems

4. Advance technologies relevant to national competitiveness

5. Catalyze regions with nascent innovation ecosystems

6. Increase job creation

7. Increase economic growth

To achieve these goals, each Engine will carry out an integrated and comprehensive set of activities spanning use-inspired research, translation-to-practice, entrepreneurship, and workforce development to nurture and accelerate regional industries. In addition, each Engine is expected to embody a culture of innovation and have a demonstrated, intense, and meaningful focus on improving diversity throughout its regional science and technology ecosystem. NSF Engine award recipients enter into cooperative agreements with the NSF and are expected to undergo an annual comprehensive evaluation assessment of the Engine’s performance, which will inform subsequent-year funding. Engines may be awarded for up to 10 years, and decisions are made by NSF for continued funding at years 2 and 5.

III. SCOPE

The Contractor, in collaboration with NSF program directors, shall be responsible for conducting a mixed-methods evaluation of the NSF Engines program. The Contractor shall work with NSF to identify macro-level indicators to determine regional economic development, social impacts, and real-time metrics related to the activities of each Engine awardee. They shall also consider how the evaluation will capture the qualitative impact of an Engine’s activities on the region while documenting the state or evolution of the regional governance and networks within each Engine. To determine the long-term impacts of the funded Engines, the Contractor shall conduct a comparative analysis to assess the extent to which NSF Engines were able to catalyze and/or accelerate regional innovation ecosystems across the Nation.

Presently, there are nine engines spanning 16 states. The regions of impact for each NSF Engine may evolve and it’s anticipated that the number of NSF Engines may increase. NSF can only anticipate specific evaluation needs (e.g. metrics, data analytics, reporting requirements) over relatively short time horizons (approximately two years). The NSF Engines program evaluation needs will evolve as NSF Engine Awardees progress and the program matures.

This evaluation shall assess the causal pathways that link the drivers of the NSF Engines program to the anticipated programmatic goals, serving as a critical tool for NSF’s Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP) leadership and NSF Engines Program Directors to manage the program. Outcomes of the study will also be valuable to each Engine awardee as they conduct award-level evaluations. Evaluation findings will inform teams of when and how they need to adjust plans or course-correct over the 10-year funding period.

The NSF Engines program will have four Phases of summative evaluation: Phase 1 will be conducted after Year 2 of an Engine’s award period; Phase 2 will be conducted after Year 5 of an Engine’s award period; Phase 3 will be conducted after the conclusion of the Engine’s award period; and Phase 4 is anticipated to take place five years after the conclusion of the Engine’s award period. The Contractor shall be responsible for Phases 1 and 2 of the summative evaluations.

IV. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

The period of performance shall be one 12-month base period, with four 12-month option periods.

V. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

The primary place of performance shall be the Contractor’s place of work. Some meetings and events will take place at the NSF’s Headquarters (2415 Eisenhower Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22314). All other meetings, unless specified otherwise, shall take place online via Zoom.

Travel is anticipated in support of this requirement. All travel requires Government approval/authorization with advance written notice to and approval from the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) before travel begins. The Contractor shall be responsible for making their own travel and lodging arrangements as necessary to support the requirements.

VI. TASKS

The Contractor shall manage and execute key tasks including project initiation and regular progress meetings, conduct focus groups and interviews to evaluate program impact, and perform comprehensive impact evaluations at specified milestones. They shall handle data imputation, validate survey instruments, and develop Structural Equation Models. Additionally, the Contractor shall create and maintain dashboards for data visualization, support NSF Engines award recipients as well as the NSF Engines Program, provide ad-hoc assistance as needed, and prepare a transition plan to ensure continuity at the end of the contract.

Task 1. Project Plans and Procedures Subtask 1.1 Kick-off Meeting Within two weeks after the award of the contract, the Contractor and key project staff shall meet with the NSF Engines Program technical lead and other relevant program staff to discuss details regarding the tasks outlined in this statement of work, scheduling activities, and other issues related to the contract. The Contractor shall come prepared to identify any areas of concern not contained in the accepted technical proposal or discussed during contract negotiations, and to suggest ways to respond to these concerns. Discussions shall include the overall management plan and schedule (see Appendix A).

Discussions shall also include contract clarifications, project expectations, reporting and invoicing requirements, data security, and quality control and monitoring requirements. Within two weeks following the meeting, the Contractor shall submit an email summarizing the key issues and concerns raised at the meeting, and how each will be addressed.

Subtask 1.2 Ongoing Meetings The Contractor shall participate in regular meetings (weekly or biweekly) with the NSF Engines technical lead throughout the period of performance. These meetings shall be arranged by the Contractor at the discretion of the NSF Engines technical lead.

Task 2. Focus Group or Key Informant Interviews The Contractor shall employ a combination of focus groups and key informant interviews, scheduled annually or as deemed necessary per discussion with NSF, to gain a nuanced understanding of the activities and dynamics within and across NSF Engines award recipients. The focus groups and key informant interviews shall serve as invaluable opportunities to delve into the intricacies of what is happening on the ground for both internal operations and anticipated outcomes.

The specific focus areas for these discussions shall be collaboratively determined by the Contractor and the NSF, ensuring alignment with overarching project objectives and priorities.

In analyzing the insights gleaned from these sessions, the Contractor shall employ rigorous qualitative methodologies such as thematic content analysis, ripple effect mapping, or other appropriate techniques.

Through these analyses, the Contractor shall discern emerging trends, identify potential gaps in program implementation or understanding, highlight notable strengths, and pinpoint challenges encountered by the NSF Engines award recipients.

Upon completion of the focus groups and key informant interviews, the Contractor shall compile their findings into a comprehensive written report at the program level. This report should be submitted to the NSF within six months of concluding the focus group and key informant interviews. The report shall encapsulate the insights gleaned from the qualitative data analysis, offering a detailed examination of the trends, gaps, strengths, and challenges and the implications of these findings to the NSF Engines program.

The Contractor may also be called upon to provide a briefing to NSF Engines program staff and TIP leadership.

In addition, the Contractor will provide written reports of their findings on each NSF Engine award recipient. NSF may choose to share these reports with their respective NSF Engine award recipient for situational awareness and may use the reports for assessment decision-making purposes. The individual reports should be submitted to the NSF within 3 months of the program level report.

Task 3. Summative Evaluations The Contractor shall conduct a comprehensive series of summative evaluations of the NSF Engines program. The Contractor's approach shall entail a meticulous examination of both quantitative and qualitative data to construct a cohesive report surrounding the program's short-, medium-, and long-term impacts. Through this process, the Contractor shall provide valuable insights into the program's effectiveness in achieving its stated goals.

Subtask 3.1 Evaluation Plan for Phase I and Phase 2 Summative Evaluations The Contractor shall develop and submit a comprehensive Evaluation Plan for both Phase I and Phase II impact evaluations within the first 5 months of the contract. The Evaluation Plan should outline the methodologies, data collection strategies, and analytical approaches to be employed in assessing the effectiveness and outcomes of the program during each phase. The Contractor shall collaborate closely with NSF to refine and finalize the plan, ensuring it aligns with the program's goals and requirements.

Sub-task 3.2 Phase I Summative Evaluation The Contractor shall collect the necessary data, both quantitative and qualitative, needed to evaluate the short-term impacts of the NSF Engines program following the completion of Phase I of the NSF Engine award. This phase, encompassing the first two years of the award, presents an opportunity to evaluate the program's immediate efficacy toward its goals. The Contractor shall delve into the extent to which the program enhances awarded teams' understanding of regional assets, strengthens governance and management structures, fosters new partnerships, and facilitates the development of strategic initiatives tailored to address specific challenges.

The Contractor shall deliver to NSF a written report on the short-term impacts of the NSF Engines program, along with recommendations for how the program could be improved for NSF to consider. The first draft of the written report shall be delivered no later than September 1, 2026. The final draft of the written report shall be delivered no later than November 15, 2026.

Sub-task 3.3 Phase II Summative Evaluation The Contractor shall collect the necessary data, both quantitative and qualitative, needed to evaluate the medium-term impacts observed after the completion of Phase II of the NSF Engines program. This impact evaluation shall focus on the NSF Engines program's effectiveness in fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth within targeted regions. The evaluation should include industrial cluster analyses of the NSF Engines award recipients as well as macro socioeconomic indicators. The Contractor shall work with NSF to identify and define other indicators and metrics to be included in this impact evaluation.

The Contractor shall deliver to NSF a written report on the medium-term impacts of the NSF Engines program, along with recommendations for how the program could be improved for program award years 3 through 5 for NSF to consider. The first draft of the written report should be delivered no later than September 1, 2029. The final draft of the written report should be delivered no later than November 15, 2029.

Task 4. Data Imputation and Survey Instrument Validation The Contractor shall undertake the comprehensive task of data imputation and validation of survey instruments used in the NSF Engines programmatic data collection. This task aims to ensure both the accuracy and reliability of the collected data, and the validity of the survey instruments utilized.

Sub-task 4.1 Data Imputation To address item-level missing data in longitudinal datasets, the Contractor shall employ advanced imputation techniques. Specifically, they shall apply K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) imputation methods to fill in missing values for data collected the first award year. For subsequent years, where longitudinal data are available, the Contractor shall use Multivariate Imputation by Chained Equations (MICE) to handle missing data across longitudinal datasets. The Contractor shall demonstrate expertise in applying MICE to estimate missing values accurately across multiple variables and time points. Data imputation methods may need to be updated as the NSF Engines program evolves, based on changing needs, emerging best practices, and feedback from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The Contractor shall be well-versed in data imputation techniques and shall support NSF in selecting the most appropriate methods if changes in methodology are required.

Sub-task 4.2. Survey Instrument Validation The Contractor shall conduct appropriate analyses to determine whether the survey instruments used in programmatic data collection accurately measure the latent constructs they are designed to assess. This includes calculating Cronbach's alpha or using similar statistical measures to evaluate the internal consistency of the survey instruments. This step shall confirm that the items within each construct reliably measure the intended construct. The Contractor shall also perform Confirmatory Factor Analyses (CFA) to validate the constructs measured by the survey instruments. They shall assess the fit of the CFA models to ensure that the survey items align with the theoretical constructs.

Furthermore, the Contractor shall examine criterion validity by analyzing differences in each construct based on key respondent characteristics, such as race/ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation. This analysis shall utilize methods suggested by the literature to verify whether the constructs exhibit expected behaviors across various respondent groups.

The Contractor shall deliver to NSF a report detailing (1) the methodologies and parameter settings used for KNN and MICE imputation and summarize how these methods have enhanced data completeness and reliability, along with suggestions or recommendations, if applicable for NSF to consider on how to improve the data imputation process; and (2) the validation of the survey instruments, documenting the results of internal consistency analyses, findings from the CFA, and the examination of criterion validity, along with interpretations of how these findings align with theoretical expectations. The first draft of this report should be delivered no later than 8 months following the completion of the first programmatic data collection, which is anticipated to take place between February and April 2025. The final draft of the written report should be delivered within 4 months of the first draft. The Contractor shall update this report following the second programmatic data collection, once longitudinal data are available, and whenever there are significant changes to the survey instruments as directed by NSF.

Sub-task 4.3. Publication(s) The awarded Contractor shall work closely with NSF to co-author one or more peer-reviewed publication(s), op-eds, or industry publications that detail the development and validation of the NSF Engines survey instruments. These publications shall also explore how the survey instruments can be used to assess various aspects of building innovation ecosystems. Work on the publication(s) shall begin once all survey instruments have been validated, which will likely occur around year 2 or 3 of the contract.

Task 5. Structural Equation Models (SEMs) Sub-task 5.1 SEM Findings The Contractor shall leverage their expertise to design SEMs for the validated survey instruments described in Task 4. The Contractor shall conduct in-depth literature reviews to inform the development of SEMs that are robust and tailored to the unique characteristics of the NSF Engines program.

The Contractor shall provide detailed documentation of the literature review process, highlighting key findings and insights that support the design of SEMs for analyzing programmatic data.

Leveraging the identified survey instruments and proposed relationships of latent constructs, the Contractor shall conduct SEM analyses, examining the relationships between various factors within innovation ecosystems.

The Contractor shall deliver a comprehensive written report to NSF, detailing the findings from the SEM analysis, including testing for validity and reliability. The first draft of the report should be delivered to NSF no later than 8 months following the completion of the NSF-led programmatic data collection that includes the SEM survey instruments. The NSF-led programmatic data collection will occur annually and is currently anticipated to take place between February-April of each year. The timing of when the SEM survey instruments will be included in the programmatic data collection is dependent on NSF receiving OMB clearance. The final draft of the written report should be delivered no later than 6 months following the delivery of the first draft. The Contractor shall deliver this report up to fifteen times—anytime there is a change in the survey instruments and/or anytime additional NSF Engine award recipients are added to the program.

Sub-task 5.2 SEM Peer-review Publication(s) The Contractor shall work with NSF to co-author one or more peer-reviewed publication(s) that detail the development, analysis, and findings of the NSF Engines SEM(s) and the implications the findings have on building innovation ecosystems. Work on the peer-reviewed publication(s) shall be scheduled at a mutually agreed time between the Contractor and NSF and shall be guided by the findings from sub-task 5.1.

Task 6. Integration of NSF-Collected Data Throughout the evaluation process, the Contractor shall integrate relevant NSF-collected as well as third-party data (e.g., Pitchbook, Lightcast, LinkedIn data) into the program evaluation framework. The Contractor shall be responsible for developing both external and internal-facing dashboards using available NSF tools and systems and following established NSF IT procedures. These dashboards must integrate third-party data sources along with NSF-collected data and other relevant sources. The Contractor shall ensure that the dashboards are designed to effectively present and visualize data, providing valuable insights and facilitating informed decision-making for both internal stakeholders and external audiences. Dashboards are to be created using Tableau, Shiny, Quarto, or another application approved by NSF. The delivery of this sub-task shall be dependent on other pieces of the NSF Engines program evaluation. The delivery timeline shall be mutually agreed upon by the Contractor and NSF.

These dashboards are expected at the individual NSF Engine award recipient level as well as the NSF Engines program level.

In addition, the Contractor shall maintain and update Tableau dashboards created by the incumbent. These dashboards display socioeconomic macro indicators, industrial cluster analyses, and competitiveness indicators derived from the Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Bureau of Economic Analysis, and other relevant data sources.

The Contractor shall navigate the OMB clearance process for any additional data collection efforts required, ensuring seamless integration and maximizing the utility of available data.

Task 7. Information/Support for NSF Engines Award Recipients The Contractor shall offer guidance to the evaluators integrated into their NSF Engine teams, reviewing and providing feedback on individual evaluation plans. The Contractor shall serve as a resource, facilitating the provision of specific data required for program-level evaluation, and ensuring that Engine awardees receive the support necessary to optimize their participation in the evaluation process.

Task 8. Ad-hoc Support The Contractor shall provide ad-hoc support in several key areas. Specifically, when called upon, the Contractor shall:

Conduct detailed analyses utilizing both existing and third-party data provided by the NSF. This support aims to address any data-related inquiries that may arise from entities such as TIP leadership, the National Science Board, or Congress. These requests are estimated to occur twice per year.

Develop and draft comprehensive reports based on these analyses. These reports should be prepared with a minimum of two months' advance notice, accommodating requests from the above stakeholders.

Task 9. Transition plan The Contractor shall develop and deliver a comprehensive transition plan no later than two months before the conclusion of the contract term. The transition plan format should facilitate ease of understanding and implementation by successor personnel, fostering a seamless handover of responsibilities and continuity of the NSF Engines program evaluation. The transition plan shall:

1. Provide detailed methodologies employed in the execution of the contracted work, encompassing a detailed documentation of all tasks, analyses, and deliverables completed by the Contractor throughout the contract period.

2. Identify any ongoing tasks or projects yet to be completed, outlining their status, anticipated timelines for completion, and any outstanding deliverables.

3. Include a compilation of all analytical codes, analyses, software tools, and methodologies used, accompanied by thorough documentation for replication and understanding by successor personnel.

4. Transparently delineate all search parameters, data sources, and underlying assumptions employed in analyses, ensuring clarity and reproducibility of results.

5. Disclose any pending information, data, or findings in progress or under review, along with an estimated timeline for their completion and integration into the project deliverables.

VII. CONSTRAINTS

Security Considerations

The Contractor may have access, beyond that which is common to the normal contractual relationship, to Government and supplier data, including sensitive industry and proprietary data and potential trade secrets.

The Contractor staff shall undergo NSF Security Clearance procedures to gain access to NSF’s systems and data. The COR will ensure all requirements are met for the Contractor to gain access to NSF facilities and IT systems.

Government Furnished Equipment

The Contractor shall furnish and use computer equipment (i.e., laptops/computers, monitors, cables, etc.)

that has been preapproved in writing by NSF for use on/with NSF systems in conjunction with performance. Contractor equipment approved for use during task order performance shall be imaged by the NSF help desk.

NSF will provide software licenses for all software that is part of the NSF standard image; telephone service (IP telephony), network connectivity, shared printing and basic office supplies for onsite performance. The Contractor shall ensure the NSF image(s) and application(s) remain current according to NSF guidelines; and maintain a current inventory of all Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) and Contractor equipment/property approved by the Government for use in conjunction with performance.

The NSF help desk will wipe NSF images on Contractor equipment when a contractor devise is no longer needed for performance.

Accessibility

The Accessibility Requirements identified in Attachment 1 are applicable to this requirement per Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act.

VIII. SCHEDULE OF DELIVERABLES

Task Deliverable/Milestone Due Date/Frequency Kick-off meeting Within two weeks after the award of the contract Email summarizing the minutes and action items from kick-off meeting

Within two weeks following the kick-off meeting

Schedule routine meetings Within two weeks following the kick-off meeting, then as applicable

Focus group/key informant reports— program level

Within six months of concluding the focus group and key informant interviews

Focus group/key informant reports— individual NSF Engines award recipient level

Within three months of program level focus group/key informant report

Task Deliverable/Milestone Due Date/Frequency Evaluation plan for phase I and II summative evaluations

5 months from contract award date

First draft of phase I summative evaluation report

September 1, 2026

Final phase I summative evaluation report November 15, 2026 First draft of phase II summative evaluation report

September 1, 2029

Final phase II summative evaluation report November 15, 2029 First draft of first data imputation and survey validation report

8 months following the completion of the first programmatic data collection that contain SEM survey instruments

Final draft of first data imputation and survey validation report

4 months following the first draft of the report

First draft of future data imputation and survey validation reports

4 months following the completion of the future programmatic data collection

Final draft of future data imputation and survey validation reports

2 months following the first draft of the report

Peer-reviewed publication on survey validation

Work shall commence around year 2 or 3 of the contract award

Literature review findings No later than 8 months following the completion of the first programmatic data collection that contains the SEM survey instruments

First draft of SEM report No later than 8 months following the completion of the first programmatic data collection

Final SEM report No later than 6 months following the delivery of the first draft SEM Report; Updated anytime there is a change in the survey instruments and/or anytime additional NSF Engine award recipients are added to the program.

Peer-reviewed SEM publication Mutually agreed time between the Contractor and NSF, and shall be guided by the findings from sub-task 5.1

6 Data integration and dashboards Mutually agreed upon timeline by the Contractor and NSF

Feedback on individual evaluation plans Up to 3 times a year for each NSF Engines award recipient, on an as needed basis

Information/support for NSF Engines award recipients

As needed

Detailed Analysis of NSF-provided data As requested8 Comprehensive reports of the data analysis No later than two months after requested

9 Transition plan No later than two months before the conclusion of the contract term

49100425Q0002

ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS/TERMS AND CONDITIONS

A.3 ADDENDUM to FAR 52.212-1 Instructions to Offerors—Commercial Products and Commercial Services

FAR 52.212-1 is replaced in its entirety by this addendum.

Submitting your quote. Submit your company’s quote electronically to the Contract Specialist, Alyssa Todaro, at atodaro@nsf.gov. NSF limits email attachments to 20 MB in size. Quote submissions exceeding 20 MB in size shall be sent as separate emails to avoid being rejected or delayed by the NSF servers. You may submit more than one quote. If you do, we will evaluate each separately.

Submission deadline. We must receive your quote by the date and time specified in Block 8 of the SF- 1449. We will not consider any quote that we receive after the deadline unless we receive it before we issue a purchase order and considering it will not delay our purchase. In case of an emergency that delays our operations and makes submission or receipt of your quote impossible, we will extend the deadline by one working day.

Question deadline. Questions pertaining to this solicitation should be submitted electronically to the Contract Specialist identified above no later than one week prior to the date and time specified in Block 8 of the SF-1449. We may not answer questions submitted after the deadline.

Period for acceptance of quotes. By submitting a quote, you agree to hold the prices in your quote firm for 45 calendar days from the submission deadline date.

Terms and content of your quote. Your quote must be based on the terms of this RFQ. We might reject any quote that is not based on these terms in every respect. Your quote must contain all the information described below. Quotes must be formatted on 8.5- by 11-inch paper using font no smaller than eleven

(11) point. Tables and charts may use smaller font if necessary.

Small business status. To submit a quote, you must know whether your company is a small business. The small business size standard that applies to this purchase is stated in Block 10 of the SF-1449, along with the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code on which it is based. Regardless of the information in Block 10, the small business size standard is 500 employees if you are submitting your quote in your own name but intend to provide a product that you did not manufacture yourself.

Issuance of purchase order. Your quote should contain your best terms. The Contracting Officer may reject any or all quotes. After the evaluation of quotes, the Contracting Officer may negotiate final terms with one or more quoters of the Government’s choice before issuing a purchase order. The Contracting Officer may issue a purchase order to other than the quoter with the lowest price. The Contracting Officer will not negotiate with any quoters other than those of the Government’s choice and will not use the formal source selection procedures described in FAR Part 15.

Information to be submitted. Put the following information on the first page of your quote:

1. the number of this RFQ;

2. your company name, address, UEI number (see below) and telephone number;

3. subcontractor names and UEI (if applicable);

4. acknowledgement of any amendments to this RFQ; and

5. a statement that you assent to all terms of this RFQ.

Beginning on the second page of your quote, provide the following information in the following order:

1. Clear, concise, and thorough information that demonstrates your comprehension of the technical and service requirements outlined in the SOW and the proposed approach to complete the requirements. This includes developing and analyzing survey instruments, managing large-scale data collection, addressing non-response bias, applying survey methodologies, performing data imputation, creating databases, working with large federal databases, integrating federal and third-party databases, and conducting structural equation modeling. There is a 10 (ten) page limit to this section.

2. A management plan detailing your approach to distribute appropriate staff according to the work;

obtain commitment of adequate staff; establish and maintain a sound relationship between staff time commitment to anticipated level of effort and adequate task scheduling coordination; deal with problems;

and ensure timely and high-quality performance on all work. Provide a detailed breakdown of staff by their technical competencies relevant to the project. This should include the number of staff members and their respective areas of expertise. There is a 7 (seven) page limit to this section.

3. A summary of recent (last three years) and relevant projects completed. The summary should specifically address your past experiences in conducting evaluations related to economic development, workforce development, and innovation ecosystems. The summary shall also establish the recency and relevancy of the cited projects. It shall also include the points of contact (phone number and email address) for the client, the contract/order number (if applicable), and any associated formal performance evaluations. You may provide references either as a prime contractor or a subcontractor so long as the summary clearly details how you contributed meaningfully to project performance. NSF reserves the right to use relevant past performance information it obtains through other sources (e.g., interviews with previous clients/customers of the contractor, other agency databases, etc.). There is a 3 (three) page limit to this section.

4. Responses to the following solicitation provisions: 52.204-24, 52.209-7, 52.212-3, and NSF270.

5. Pricing in support of the Statement of Work in a format similar to that in Section B.1, Price/Cost Schedule. The proposed pricing should identify the actual name of labor categories to be used in performance of this contract; fully loaded hourly labor rates; number of proposed hours; and the total cost per Contract Line Item Number (CLIN). The contractor shall also provide a total proposed ceiling price.

Your pricing shall include the following plug numbers for Other Direct Costs (ODCs) and Travel in the exact amounts provided below.

Travel Other Direct Costs Base $18,000.00 $23,000.00 Opt Yr 1 $18,000.00 $23,000.00 Opt Yr 2 $18,000.00 $23,000.00 Opt Yr 3 $18,000.00 $123,000.00 Opt Yr 4 $18,000.00 $23,000.00

Availability of Government documents. If the descriptions in this RFQ of the products or services we want to buy refer to any Government specification, standard, or commercial item description, you may obtain a copy of any such documents from the places listed in Federal Acquisition Regulation 52.212-1, paragraph (i).

System for Award Management (SAM). Unless exempted by the Contracting Officer, you must register in SAM before we will issue a purchase order to you. If you do not register by the submission deadline, the Contracting Officer might issue the order to a different quoter. Once registered, you must remain registered throughout performance until final payment. Go to https://www.acquisition.gov for information on SAM registration and annual confirmation.

Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). Place the annotation “UEI” next to your name and address on the first page of your quote followed by the UEI number that identifies the quoter’s name and address. Also include your Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) indicator, if applicable.

If you do not have a UEI number, contact the entity designated at www.sam.gov for unique entity identifier establishment directly to obtain one. Indicate that you are submitting a quote for a Government contract when contacting the entity designated at www.sam.gov.

The EFT indicator is a four-character suffix to the UEI that you may use at your discretion to establish additional SAM records for identifying alternative EFT accounts (see FAR Subpart 32.11) for your company.

A.4 52.204-24 REPRESENTATION REGARDING CERTAIN

TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND VIDEO SURVEILLANCE SERVICES OR

EQUIPMENT (NOV 2021)

The Offeror shall not complete the representation at paragraph (d)(1) of this provision if the Offeror has represented that it ‘‘does not provide covered telecommunications equipment or services as a part of its offered products or services to the Government in the performance of any contract, subcontract, or other contractual instrument’’ in paragraph (c)(1) in the provision at 52.204–26, Covered Telecommunications Equipment or Services—Representation, or in paragraph (v)(2)(i) of the provision at 52.212–3, Offeror Representations and Certifications–Commercial Products and Commercial Services. The Offeror shall not complete the representation in paragraph (d)(2) of this provision if the Offeror has represented that it ‘‘does not use covered telecommunications equipment or services, or any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services’’ in paragraph (c)(2) of the provision at 52.204–26, or in paragraph (v)(2)(ii) of the provision at 52.212–3.

(a) Definitions. As used in this provision—

Backhaul, covered telecommunications equipment or services, critical technology, interconnection arrangements, reasonable inquiry, roaming, and substantial or essential component have the meanings provided in the clause 52.204–25, Prohibition on Contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment.

(b) Prohibition. (1) Section 889(a)(1)(A) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Pub. L. 115–232) prohibits the head of an executive agency on or after August 13, 2019, from procuring or obtaining, or extending or renewing a contract to procure or obtain, any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system. Nothing in the prohibition shall be construed to—

(i) Prohibit the head of an executive agency from procuring with an entity to provide a service that connects to the facilities of a third-party, such as backhaul, roaming, or interconnection arrangements; or

(ii) Cover telecommunications equipment that cannot route or redirect user data traffic or cannot permit visibility into any user data or packets that such equipment transmits or otherwise handles.

(2) Section 889(a)(1)(B) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Pub. L. 115–232) prohibits the head of an executive agency on or after August 13, 2020, from entering into a contract or extending or renewing a contract with an entity that uses any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system. This prohibition applies to the use of covered telecommunications equipment or services, regardless of whether that use is in performance of work under a Federal contract. Nothing in the prohibition shall be construed to—

(i) Prohibit the head of an executive agency from procuring with an entity to provide a service that connects to the facilities of a third-party, such as backhaul, roaming, or interconnection arrangements; or

(ii) Cover telecommunications equipment that cannot route or redirect user data traffic or cannot permit visibility into any user data or packets that such equipment transmits or otherwise handles.

(c) Procedures. The Offeror shall review the list of excluded parties in the System for Award Management (SAM) (https://www.sam.gov) for entities excluded from receiving federal awards for “covered telecommunications equipment or services.”

(d) Representations. The Offeror represents that—

(1) It [ ] will, [ ] will not provide covered telecommunications equipment or services to the Government in the performance of any contract, subcontract or other contractual instrument resulting from this solicitation. The Offeror shall provide the additional disclosure information required at paragraph (e)(1) of this section if the Offeror responds “will’’ in paragraph (d)(1) of this section; and

(2) After conducting a reasonable inquiry, for purposes of this representation, the Offeror represents that—

It [ ] does, [ ] does not use covered telecommunications equipment or services, or use any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services. The Offeror shall provide the additional disclosure information required at paragraph (e)(2) of this section if the Offeror responds “does’’ in paragraph (d)(2) of this section.

(e) Disclosures. (1) Disclosure for the representation in paragraph (d)(1) of this provision. If the Offeror has responded “will’’ in the representation in paragraph (d)(1) of this provision, the Offeror shall provide the following information as part of the offer:

(i) For covered equipment—

(A) The entity that produced the covered telecommunications equipment (include entity name, unique entity identifier, CAGE code, and whether the entity was the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or a distributor, if known);

(B) A description of all covered telecommunications equipment offered (include brand; model number, such as OEM number, manufacturer part number, or wholesaler number; and item description, as applicable); and

(C) Explanation of the proposed use of covered telecommunications equipment and any factors relevant to determining if such use would be permissible under the prohibition in paragraph (b)(1) of this provision.

(ii) For covered services—

(A) If the service is related to item maintenance: A description of all covered telecommunications services offered (include on the item being maintained: Brand; model number, such as OEM number, manufacturer part number, or wholesaler number; and item description, as applicable); or

(B) If not associated with maintenance, the Product Service Code (PSC) of the service being provided; and explanation of the proposed use of covered telecommunications services and any factors relevant to determining if such use would be permissible under the prohibition in paragraph (b)(1) of this provision.

(2) Disclosure for the representation in paragraph (d)(2) of this provision. If the Offeror has responded “does’’ in the representation in paragraph (d)(2) of this provision, the Offeror shall provide the following information as part of the offer:

(i) For covered equipment—

(A) The entity that produced the covered telecommunications equipment (include entity name, unique entity identifier, CAGE code, and whether the entity was the OEM or a distributor, if known);

(B) A description of all covered telecommunications equipment offered (include brand; model number, such as OEM number, manufacturer part number, or wholesaler number; and item description, as applicable); and

(C) Explanation of the proposed use of covered telecommunications equipment and any factors relevant to determining if such use would be permissible under the prohibition in paragraph (b)(2) of this provision.

(ii) For covered services—

(A) If the service is related to item maintenance: A description of all covered telecommunications services offered (include on the item being maintained: Brand; model number, such as OEM number, manufacturer part number, or wholesaler number; and item description, as applicable); or

(B) If not associated with maintenance, the PSC of the service being provided; and explanation of the proposed use of covered telecommunications services and any factors relevant to determining if such use would be permissible under the prohibition in paragraph (b)(2) of this provision.

A.5 52.204-29 FEDERAL ACQUISITION SUPPLY CHAIN SECURITY ACT

ORDERS—REPRESENTATION AND DISCLOSURES (DEC 2023)

(a) Definitions. As used in this provision, Covered article, FASCSA order, Intelligence community, National security system, Reasonable inquiry, Sensitive compartmented information, Sensitive compartmented information system, and Source have the meaning provided in the clause 52.204–30, Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act Orders— Prohibition.

(b) Prohibition. Contractors are prohibited from providing or using as part of the performance of the contract any covered article, or any products or services produced or provided by a source, if the prohibition is set out in an applicable Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act (FASCSA) order, as described in paragraph (b)(1) of FAR 52.204–30, Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act Orders—Prohibition.

(c) Procedures. (1) The Offeror shall search for the phrase ‘‘FASCSA order’’ in the System for Award Management (SAM)(https://www.sam.gov) for any covered article, or any products or services produced or provided by a source, if there is an applicable FASCSA order described in paragraph (b)(1) of FAR 52.204–30, Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act Orders—Prohibition.

(2) The Offeror shall review the solicitation for any FASCSA orders that are not in SAM, but are effective and do apply to the solicitation and resultant contract (see FAR 4.2303(c)(2)).

(3) FASCSA orders issued after the date of solicitation do not apply unless added by an amendment to the solicitation.

(d) Representation. By submission of this offer, the offeror represents that it has conducted a reasonable inquiry, and that the offeror does not propose to provide or use in response to this solicitation any covered article, or any products or services produced or provided by a source, if the covered article or the source is prohibited by an applicable FASCSA order in effect on the date the solicitation was issued, except as waived by the solicitation, or as disclosed in paragraph (e).

(e) Disclosures. The purpose for this disclosure is so the Government may decide whether to issue a waiver. For any covered article, or any products or services produced or provided by a source, if the covered article or the source is subject to an applicable FASCSA order, and the Offeror is unable to represent compliance, then the Offeror shall provide the following information as part of the offer:

(1) Name of the product or service provided to the Government;

(2) Name of the covered article or source subject to a FASCSA order;

(3) If applicable, name of the vendor, including the Commercial and Government Entity code and unique entity identifier (if known), that supplied the covered article or the product or service to the Offeror;

(4) Brand;

(5) Model number (original equipment manufacturer number, manufacturer part number, or wholesaler number);

(6) Item description;

(7) Reason why the applicable…