COVID-19 Industry Day FAQ.pdf

SVIP FAQ/Q&A “Emerging Needs: COVID-19 Response and Future Mitigation” Industry Day

SVIP Programmatic Questions – Melissa Oh

1. Is this open to foreign companies?

• Yes. However, awards to non-U.S. entities may take longer.

2. How many companies do you select on average per project?

• Usually at least 1, as many as 7, and sometimes 0 if the solutions proposed do not meet the requirements.

3. Do you have a definition of startup? For example, is an existing small company developing a new product eligible?

• Please refer to the SVIP OTS Section 4 for eligibility requirements.

4. How can universities and large companies provide help with COVID?

• If you don’t meet the startup definition, please see “How to Work with Us” for other

DHS S&T opportunities.

5. Can you submit more than one application?

• You can only submit one application per company. If you believe that your technology can address multiple use cases, please ensure that you articulate how your technology can address multiple use cases within the same application.

6. Are there any security clearances requirements?

• No, not at this time. If determined over Phase I that one is needed, we can have that conversation then.

7. Is it possible to start at a later Phase?

• No, we start at Phase I which is our proof-of-concept to ensure the company can successfully meet DHS requirements. A company can always propose a shorter Phase I (3 months).

8. Do oversees companies have to travel to the US?

• We ask companies to budget for travel. Please price out travel in the application. We can always modify the contract if travelling is no longer needed.

9. How do we reach out to DHS S&T if we do not qualify for the SVIP?

• Please email us at SandT.Innovation@hq.dhs.gov.

10. If accepted into the program, can you describe the Phased structure?

• Please reference our SVIP website to understand more about the program’s phased structure.

11. Will these COVID-19 contracts be managed through a consortium?

• No, they will be managed by DHS program managers.

12. Can a non-profit get chosen?

• Please refer to the SVIP OTS Section 4 for eligibility requirements.

13. What if we have not taken outside investing?

• Companies without outside investment are eligible to apply. We have funded companies without venture backing in the past.

14. How are the submissions vetted?

• Please refer to the SVIP OTS Section 8 for Evaluation of Applications.

15. Do you ever create hybrid solutions from more than one applicant?

https://beta.sam.gov/opp/3da6f22122b94b3d98c03a2483ec7320/view https://beta.sam.gov/opp/3da6f22122b94b3d98c03a2483ec7320/view https://www.dhs.gov/science-and-technology/ways-work-us https://www.dhs.gov/science-and-technology/ways-work-us mailto:SandT.Innovation@hq.dhs.gov mailto:SandT.Innovation@hq.dhs.gov https://www.dhs.gov/science-and-technology/svip https://www.dhs.gov/science-and-technology/svip https://beta.sam.gov/opp/3da6f22122b94b3d98c03a2483ec7320/view https://beta.sam.gov/opp/3da6f22122b94b3d98c03a2483ec7320/view https://beta.sam.gov/opp/3da6f22122b94b3d98c03a2483ec7320/view https://beta.sam.gov/opp/3da6f22122b94b3d98c03a2483ec7320/view

• It is the company’s business decision on who they would like to work with. We will introduce companies to see if they want to collaborate, but it is never forced. We encourage collaboration but hybrid solutions are company decisions.

16. For startups, if this is the first time we’ve worked with the government, is that a problem?

• No, the program is designed for nontraditional government contractors with little or no government experience.

17. If I have specific questions about my eligibility, who should I contact?

• Email us at dhs-silicon-valley@hq.dhs.gov

18. Can a large company partner with a start-up?

• More details are needed in order to answer this question. Some of the factors that go into answering this question are whether or not the larger company can be considered a “nontraditional government contractor” within the meaning of 10 U.S.C. Sec. 2302 (substituting the words “Government Contractor” for the words “Defense Contractor”) and details regarding who is performing what portion of the work to ensure that smaller company is not being used as a pass through.

19. Are you accepting solutions being developed by an academic institution?

• Please refer to the SVIP OTS Section 4 for eligibility requirements.

20. Can this opportunity open doors to other government agencies?

• Absolutely! There is no guarantee but successful SVIP performers have gone on to work with other government agencies. A major part of the SVIP is promoting our performers with other DHS components and government agencies that have similar issues in need of our developed solutions.

21. Can two startups, which meet SVIP eligibility requirements, submit a proposal together?

• Yes, but the SVIP can only award to one company. The startups will need to figure out the work breakdown structure.

22. Will the live event be posted at a later date?

• The recording and presentation are temporarily available through the registration site until we can make them 508 compliant and permanently available on our website.

23. My company is a startup founded Feb 2019. We have received DHS SBIR P1 this year, DoD SBIR P1 & P2 in 2019 and 2020. Do we qualify for this program?

• No, if the total amounts exceed $1M in one year.

24. What was the university research partnership that was mentioned as part of the Contact Tracing

Application Testing Use Case?

• Given procurement sensitivities, this information is not public at this time.

25. What if we already have a commercially available product that we would like to propose. Do we still qualify?

• Yes

26. How fast after invoicing can we expect payment? EU can be months. Possibility of part upfront to balance liquidity?

• There are no up-front payments. All payments are made after successful completion of milestones and Government acceptance of associated deliverables.

27. Can you apply for more than one type of application at a time, if your company has several products? Can you re-compete if the written pitch was not accepted/'good enough?

mailto:dhs-silicon-valley@hq.dhs.gov mailto:dhs-silicon-valley@hq.dhs.gov https://beta.sam.gov/opp/3da6f22122b94b3d98c03a2483ec7320/view https://beta.sam.gov/opp/3da6f22122b94b3d98c03a2483ec7320/view https://sri-csl.regfox.com/svip-covid19-industryday https://sri-csl.regfox.com/svip-covid19-industryday

• You can only submit one application per company. If you believe that your technology can address multiple use cases, please ensure that you articulate how your technology can address multiple use cases within the same application.

• Per the guidance in the OTS HSHQDC-16-R-B0005, if the application is deemed non-compliant, your application will be rejected, and you will receive an email notification listing the compliance issue. You may fix the issue and resubmit the application if the call is still open.

28. If my company got funding greater than 2 million for a government project 3 years ago, can we still apply for a new project if we have not met the $1 MM threshold in the last 12 months?

• Yes

Use Case 1: Test and Validate Service and Security of Contact Tracing Apps - Anil John

1. Could you address what the attraction of applying to the SVIP?

• It is your decision to apply to SVIP. SVIP provides non-dilutive funding, does not take your core IP, provides mentorship and access to the Homeland Security Enterprise, and the opportunity to validate the adaption of your technology in an operationally realistic environment. We expect you to put in the work to take your solution out into the market and be successful.

2. Would a virtual testbed be in scope?

• If you believe that is a viable testing strategy for contact tracing applications, then apply.

3. Does DHS have an interest in accessing the data that comes out of these tests?

• No.

4. Will you be helping in the developing and the testing of the policy consideration?

• DHS Office of Policy will be a participant in the policy considerations conversation that will be convened via a separate work stream.

5. Most apps transfer data to a server, do you envision a testing framework that can somehow test restrictions on the functional use of data anywhere in a cloud?

• DHS is seeking a testing framework that will rigorously test and evaluate applications to ensure that they are constrained to the designated and authorized purpose, and do not leak, share or in some other manner utilize the data that they have access to either directly or indirectly to compromise the privacy, security or civil liberties of the individuals who have entrusted their sensitive and personal information to them.

Use Case 2: Video Analytics for Self-Screening at TSA Checkpoints - John Fortune

1. What are some metrics we should consider?

• There are no hard metrics; any approach will help. DHS is looking for concepts that will help with each subset.

2. Passenger screening or property screening?

• As noted in the Call, the capability being sought are focused on people “ … to ensure social distancing measures are maintained, measure the length of contact between TSOs and passengers, validate that passengers are properly progressing through the screening process, and to detect anomalous behaviors when going through a self-screening portal.”

3. Does it include temperature, and heart rate (health monitoring)?

• It could be used in the future, but we do not have a clear requirement from TSA. We may get this requirement in the future but not right now. DHS would like to reduce processing with less physical human interaction.

4. Set up system of prescreening and then give a QR code to each passenger? has DHS looked at having different checkpoints based on other known factors about the traveler (testing, etc.)?

• There have been a lot of thoughts including offsite screening, we would like a blended environment, but we do not want to add a new checkpoint.

5. Are you looking for an end to end solution?

• The SVIP solution is looking for video analytics, specifically.

6. Do proposers need to address all sections of this use case or just one?

• Just one.

7. What is the Name of the BAA mentioned by John Fortune?

• Passenger Self Screening: 70RSAT20RB00000002

• Closed August 26th, 2020

8. Does self-screening include jackets, scarves, masks, carry-ons, handbags, luggage. etc. Would it require providing instructions to passengers at the TSA checkpoint whether they are “compliant” and proceed to the next checkpoint?

• The self-screening concept design was requested under 70RSAT20RB00000002. There is no specific concept of operations at this time. Please refer to the slides presented for high level considerations around the concept.

9. Is there a need in the self-screening program for biometric screening for COVID? E.g.

temperature, etc.?

• It could be included in the future, but we do not have a clear requirement from TSA. We may get this requirement in the future but not right now. DHS would like to reduce processing with less physical human interaction.

10. Do self-sufficient checkpoint requirements include facial temperature, heart rate and oxygen levels of passengers?

• It could be included in the future, but we do not have a clear requirement from TSA. We may get this requirement in the future but not right now. DHS would like to reduce processing with less physical human interaction.

11. Are you looking to use existing TSA or airport video cameras or access a complete solution?

• Either approach is possible at this time.

12. How fast of an analysis are you looking for video analysis and measuring & counting?

• The metrics from counting and measuring adds additional value if they can be calculated in near-real time (minutes). However, there is no specific requirement at this time.

13. Is S&T open to cloud solutions to do video analytics?

• S&T would prefer local processing to streamline the transition pathway for the capability, but if sufficient value can be demonstrated by moving to a cloud solution, those approaches may be considered.

14. Are LiDAR sensors + computer vision included in "video analytics"?

• S&T would consider LiDAR, hyperspectral approaches, or other capabilities to achieve the objectives listed in the Use Case.

Use Case 3: Methods to Rapidly Disinfect Surfaces at TSA Checkpoints - Lloyd Hough

1. In the case of rapid certification, do you look to other agency certification or approval like EPA or FDA? Would that be required to be approved for the pilot program?

• That can be part of phase 1 certification. It would be preferred if it was already approved by the EPA. It would be highly desirable in order to change it into an active solution much faster. It may be unlikely, however, that a disinfectant could be rapidly implemented without prior EPA approvals in place regarding at least safety testing and possibly efficacy against other agents.

i. Your DHS S&T project manager would coordinate with EPA and a partner testing laboratory such as a National Laboratory capable of conducting this type of efficacy testing. This process would occur whenever it best aligns to the solution development process of your decontamination solution, which may or may not be in phase I. Once the viability of your decontamination solution is demonstrated, your DHS project manager will coordinate efficacy testing with you.

2. Are you looking for full solutions including delivery methods?

• We are looking for a complete solution, such as one that includes both a means of application automatically and/or mechanically plus additional solution considerations, though we would also be open in niche solutions such as one that do not include a full life-cycle methodology (such as delivery methods). Any proposed solution would ideally require a minimum amount of labor and time to apply, as seconds matter in passenger throughput at airports. An example of use would be the spraying down of bins at an airport after passenger screening, before returning said bins to circulation for use in passenger screening.

i. Your DHS S&T project manager would coordinate with EPA and a partner testing laboratory such as a National Laboratory capable of conducting this type of efficacy testing. This process would occur whenever it best aligns to the solution development process of your decontamination solution, which may or may not be in phase I. Once the viability of your decontamination solution is demonstrated, your DHS S&T project manager will coordinate efficacy testing with you.

3. What is considered rapid decontamination

• Less than a minute, 10-30 seconds of contact time would be ideal. Solutions that proposed significantly longer contact times would not be feasible. This is in line with current industry standards and solutions currently in use for COVID-19 decontamination.

4. Are there surfaces that cannot get wet?

• Yes, there are portions of TSA checkpoints and office environments that cannot get wet.

Though, many surfaces can withstand a contact time noted in the rapid decontamination guidance above (i.e. less than 1 minute). However, a “wet” solution concept would not be assessed for use in places where this type of solution is not applicable.

5. Would you prefer to rapidly disinfect entire checkpoints or concentrated parts of the checkpoint?

• Both

6. Are you interested in disinfecting luggage through the conveyer belt?

• It would be particularly difficult. It would not be viable to disinfect fabrics and hard surfaces. This also poses significant considerations in liability for private property of passenger goods. This type of use would be discouraged.

7. What is considered adequate proof of efficacy in usage? If the decontamination agent kills the virus does not necessarily mean that application will be applied adequately to kill virus on all surfaces. What is the threshold to prove effectiveness?

• A 3 log reduction (103) amount of viral concentration when comparing a control (no decontamination measure) to the use of a decontamination measure is the current industry standard.

8. What is the limiting factor in improving throughput at checkpoints - passenger screening or bag/accessible property screening?

• Passenger screening is a trade-off between time per screening/limit of detection or decontamination efficacy. Passenger screening methodologies should focus on a decontamination solution that results in Less than a minute, 10-30 seconds of contact time would be ideal as a matter of time. Also, efficacy should focus on a 3 log reduction

(103) amount of viral concentration when comparing a control (no decontamination measure) to the use of a decontamination measure.

Use Case 4: Collection and Integration of Authoritative Quantitative Open Source Information - Teresa Quitugua

1. Can we assume you need to ingest both structured and unstructured data?

• We welcome the ingestion of structured or unstructured data sources into an integrated format with a common, shared structure that allows for rapid analyses of data from a variety of different, authoritative sources.

2. Are you looking for solutions that can integrate some or all of the data sources?

• “All” open source data available during ongoing biological events is a moving target.

The more data that can be presented in a common, shared structure for rapid analysis, while maintaining data provenance and using differing data variable resolutions, the better.

3. Is there a curated set of data sources? Can they be shared?

• We are asking that open data sources publicly available online be identified and used by the performers.

• Data can be found on websites of city, state, and national authorities in the US and around the world, as well as sites other organizations have created to aggregate, integrate, and analyze data related to general and special population health and geographic movement. Special populations include persons in health care facilities, educational institutions, criminal detention facilities, and other close congregant settings.

4. Quantitative data?

• Yes, we need data that includes orders of magnitude at a minimum, numbers alone without context will not work. Definitions and denominators are needed to know the number of what (e.g. illness, deaths, all tests performed, positive tests), when (over what time period), where (over what geographic area), of how many (what is the denominator). Text without defined orders of magnitude is not helpful either (e.g. what is the difference between different people’s use of “some” and “a few” or between “many” and “a lot”? – 100 can be a small or large number based on the context).

5. Do you need a master data repository?

• Data characteristics and availability evolve during an event. We are primarily interested in tools to aim at shifting data sets during an event so we can understand the current situation and near-term trajectory.

6. How are you assuring data quality?

• We cannot control or standardize global data quality during an emerging or evolving event, and therefore need the performers to identify credible sources and maintain a transparent data provenance.

7. Can we assume that the deployed systems will be on your systems?

• Ultimately, we would like tools that work in a government IT environment, but please apply with whatever approach works best so we can see what can be accomplished.

8. Will all the data be available to the global community or only the USA?

• Any tool developed in response to this use case can be offered to any customer or the public by the performer.

9. Are you looking for solutions that can integrate all/or some of the different data types listed under the Reasons for Surveillance Silos -Data Needs Vary slide into a single system for analysis?

• Yes

10. Are you limiting the solution to passive data gathering or is an active structured poll/survey solution will also work to verify and amplify the data flow when an event is identified?

• We are focusing on passive data gathering as there are multiple legal and procedural issues that significantly inhibit the utility of surveys outside of established government operational procedures during an emerging or ongoing event.

Use Case 5: Stand-Off Methods for Point of Entry Detection at DHS Facilities - Kevin Grottle

1. Would you consider breathe analysis?

• As long as it can detect COVID 19, yes.

• Ideally the tester or screener does not have contact with the device.

• However, if contact is required, it must be done in a manner that mitigates contamination and incidental spread of any infectious disease.

2. What is the TRL required?

• We don’t want breadboard, ideally TRL 6 at the low side, higher is better.

3. Do you have per unit cost targets?

• No, , but does need to be cost effective. . Something in line with the fever cameras.

4. Does the technology have to specifically identify COVID-19 or is detecting “signs of airway infection” enough?

• Just having “signs of airway infection” is not all that compelling.

• There are many causes of airway infection and the False Positive rate, relative to COVID, would be unnecessarily high and strain adjudication resources.

5. Has aroma testing been considered?

• As long as it can detect COVID 19, yes.

• Ideally the tester or screener does not have contact with the device.

• However, if contact is required, it must be done in a manner that mitigates contamination and incidental spread of any infectious disease.

6. How quickly does the device need to generate results?

• Typical morning workforce entry into a building, handle with little disruption.

• Minutes are too long but if it works and is reliable there may be ways to accommodate.

7. Would a TRL 3 be considered?

• It could be considered to see if compelling but would be difficult to actually Pilot.

• We don’t want breadboard, ideally TRL 6 at the low side, higher is better

• A pathway to higher TRLs would be needed.

8. Can indicators be oxygen levels?

• As long as it can detect COVID 19, yes.

• Ideally the tester or screener does not have contact with the device.

• However, if contact is required, it must be done in a manner that mitigates contamination and incidental spread of any infectious disease.

9. Can you explain what you meant when you said that the information obtained could not be PII?

• We don’t want or need biographic or biometric information captured or stored.

10. What throughput would be considered?

• Typical morning workforce entry into a building, handle with little disruption.

• Minutes are too long but if it works and is reliable there may be was to accommodate.

11. Do you have a false alarm rate requirement?

• No. We will need to work with each Component or Facility Manager. But consider

“Fever camera” rates as a baseline.

• More details

i. False positives can be adjudicated within reason.

ii. False negatives need to be very low (i.e. allows an infected person to pass).