DARPA-BAA-16-22.pdf

Broad Agency Announcement

Improv Defense Sciences Office

DARPA-BAA-16-22

March 11, 2016

DARPA-BAA-16-22 Improv 2

Table of Contents

1. Funding Opportunity Description

1.1 Introduction

1.2 Program Structure

1.3 Improv Abstract and Proposal Submissions

2. Award Information

2.1. Individual Awards

3. Eligibility Information

3.1. Eligible Applicants

3.2. Conflicts of Interest

3.3. Cost Sharing/Matching

3.4. Ability to Support Classified Development, if applicable

4. Application and Submission Information

4.1. Address to Request Application Package

4.2. Content and Form of Application Submission

4.3. Submission Dates and Times

4.4. Funding Restrictions

4.5. Other Submission Requirements

5. Application Review Information

6. Award Administration Information

6.1. Selection Notices

6.2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

6.3. Reporting

7. Agency Contacts

8. Other Information

8.1. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

8.2. Proposers Day

ATTACHMENTS – Mandatory Proposal Templates

1. Technical and Management Volume

2. Cost Volume

3. Cost Summary Spreadsheet

4. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

5. Statement of Work

6. Purchase Order

DARPA-BAA-16-22 Improv 3

PART I: OVERVIEW INFORMATION

• Federal Agency Name: Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), Defense Sciences Office (DSO)

• Funding Opportunity Title: Improv

• Announcement Type: Initial Announcement

• Funding Opportunity Number: DARPA-BAA-16-22

• Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number(s): Not Applicable

• Dates (All times listed herein are Eastern Time.)

o Posting Date: March 11, 2016 o Proposers Day Webcast: March 29 and March 30, 2016. See Section 8.2.

o Abstract Due Date: April 13, 2016, 4:00 p.m.

o FAQ Submission Deadline: May 18, 2016, 4:00 p.m. See Section 8.1.

o Full Proposal Due Date: May 25, 2016, 4:00 p.m.

• Anticipated Individual Awards: Multiple awards are expected.

• Types of Instruments that May be Awarded: All awards will be made via purchase order.

• Agency contacts o Technical POC: John Main, Program Manager, DARPA/DSO o Solicitation Email (UNCLASSIFIED): Improv@darpa.mil o Solicitation Mailing Address:

DARPA/DSO

ATTN: DARPA-BAA-16-22

675 North Randolph Street Arlington, VA 22203-2114

• DARPA/DSO Solicitation Website: http://www.darpa.mil/work-with-us/opportunities

• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): FAQs for this solicitation may be viewed on the

DSO Solicitation Website. See Section 8.1 for further information.

mailto:Improv@darpa.mil http://www.darpa.mil/work-with-us/opportunities?tFilter=&oFilter=2&sort=name

DARPA-BAA-16-22 Improv 4

PART II: FULL TEXT OF ANNOUNCEMENT

1. Funding Opportunity Description

1.1 Introduction

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Improv program is soliciting innovative research proposals for prototype products and systems that have the potential to threaten current military operations, equipment, or personnel and are assembled primarily from commercially available technology.

The program definition of “commercially available technology” is largely unrestricted and ranges from generic and widely available technology such as cell phones, to highly specialized, domain-specific technology such as construction, salvage, or surveying equipment.

The technology scope of Improv is broad, and the program is structured to encourage participation by a wide range of technical specialists, researchers, developers, and skilled hobbyists. Proposers are free to reconfigure, repurpose, program, reprogram, modify, combine, or recombine commercially available technology in any way within the bounds of local, state, and federal laws and regulations. Use of components, products, and systems from non-military technical specialties (e.g., transportation, construction, maritime, and communications) is of particular interest.

The specific mechanisms for preserving the central role of commercially available technology in the program are: (1) constrained budgets, and (2) short development periods between award and prototype delivery. The purpose of these mechanisms is to keep the focus of each individual project on the integration of easily procured technology rather than on developing completely new technology. However, new technology development activity – within the bounds of the Improv program structure – is acceptable and encouraged.

1.2 Program Structure

DARPA’s intent for the Improv program is to fund a short feasibility study phase, during which performers will compete for the opportunity to build their proposed prototype. Following the prototype construction phase, some of the prototypes will be selected for evaluation. If performance warrants, DARPA may then further the development of countermeasures or capabilities of interest in separate follow-on programs.

The five sequential steps of the Improv program are illustrated in Figure 1 and further detailed below. Note: the first two steps occur during the solicitation period (i.e., are pre-award).

DARPA-BAA-16-22 Improv 5

Figure 1. Illustration of the Improv process.

1.2.1 Abstracts

Prior to submission of full proposals, proposers must submit a 2-page abstract that describes their proposed product or system; a description of the threat it might pose to conventional military operations, equipment, or personnel; the list of critical software and hardware components to be acquired; and a short description of the integration tasks and process. Following abstract review, DARPA will respond to proposers by either encouraging or discouraging preparation of a full proposal.

1.2.2 Proposals

Proposed technical plans should provide an analysis (the more quantitative the better) of the proposed system or product improvement, an integration plan, and a description of how the system or product will operate or be operated. A revised version of the abstract, updated to be congruent with the proposal, must be included with the proposal submission. (Note: while the updated/edited abstract will not count against the proposal page limit, it must still comply with the abstract content/format requirements outlined herein.) Proposals must include a Statement of Work and costs covering all three independent and sequential project phases: Feasibility Study (Phase 1); Prototype Construction (Phase 2); and Prototype Evaluation (Phase 3).

1.2.3 Feasibility Study (Phase 1)

The purpose of the Feasibility Study activity is to gain more clarity on the capability of the proposed product or system and the level of effort required to realize it. This clarity could be provided by a detailed engineering treatment of the product or system, but alternative approaches

DARPA-BAA-16-22 Improv 6 are not excluded as long as the proposer can: (1) quantitatively predict the performance of the proposed product or system; and (2) demonstrate their ability to complete a functioning prototype within the timing and funding constraints outlined herein.

For each proposal selected for award, DARPA anticipates issuing a purchase order within four weeks of the proposal submission deadline stated herein. The period of performance (PoP) for the Feasibility Study is 30 days from the issuance date of the purchase order. Upon conclusion of the Feasibility Study PoP, a report must be delivered that describes (1) the results of the study, and (2) what else can be learned by building the prototype. Based on the evaluation criteria herein, the Government may or may not select a proposed product or system to proceed to the Prototype Construction phase; the Feasibility Study report will provide the basis for the Government’s decision.

1.2.4 Prototype Construction (Phase 2)

The purpose of the Prototype Construction activity is to build a functional system that will enable experimental evaluations of key aspects of system performance. It is not possible to identify in advance what constitutes key performance criteria since the technology scope of Improv is broad. Proposers must identify and justify the key performance parameters and metrics of their respective products or systems in their proposals. These parameters/metrics will be updated as necessary throughout the Phase 2 PoP.

For each effort selected to proceed to Prototype Construction, the proposer will receive a purchase order for the Phase 2 PoP within two weeks of the submission of the Feasibility Study final report. The PoP for the Prototype Construction phase is 75 days from the purchase order issuance date. Upon conclusion of the Prototype Construction phase, a report must be delivered that (1) describes in detail the design and operation of the prototype, and (2) what else can be learned through a test range evaluation of the prototype. The report will provide the basis for the Government’s selection of products or systems that will proceed to the Prototype Evaluation phase. While the Government may or may not select a prototype for evaluation, it should still be prepared for shipment at the conclusion of Phase 2 in the eventuality that it is selected, using the evaluation criteria set forth herein.

1.2.5 Prototype Evaluation (Phase 3)

The purpose of this phase is independent evaluation of performer prototypes. The Government and/or Government contractors will perform these evaluations at a Government test facility.

Evaluation schedules will be established on a case-by-case basis and will depend upon the availability of the appropriate test facility and personnel. Phase 3 performers will be expected to support the Government evaluators by providing subject matter expertise for their prototype.

For each effort selected to proceed to the Prototype Evaluation phase, a purchase order will be issued to provide support for proposer attendance at the prototype evaluation. Proposers will be notified within three weeks of the submission of the Phase 2 report whether the Government intends to issue a purchase order for Phase 3 participation; the actual purchase order will be issued at an appropriate date prior to the prototype evaluation. Proposers may only include two weeks’ salary for two participants, two weeks’ travel to the Washington DC area, per diem, and appropriate G&A and overhead in their cost breakdowns. Following the evaluation, performers

DARPA-BAA-16-22 Improv 7 must submit a final report describing the evaluation and providing feedback.

1.3 Improv Abstract and Proposal Submissions

As stated above, all proposers must first submit an abstract prior to submitting a full proposal.

This process allows a proposer to ascertain whether the proposed concept is both applicable to the Improv BAA and currently of interest without incurring the cost of preparing a full proposal.

If, in the sole opinion of the Government after full consideration of the circumstances, an abstract or full proposal is found to be not applicable to the Improv program as defined in this document, then it may be deemed non-conforming and removed from consideration.

“Conforming” is defined as having been submitted in accordance with all of the requirements outlined in this Improv BAA. All abstracts and full proposals must provide sufficient information to assess the validity/feasibility of their claims as well as comply with the requirements outlined herein for submission formatting, content, and transmission to DARPA.

Proposers will be notified of non-conforming determinations via letter.

Each abstract or proposal may only address a single prototype system or product; however, proposers may submit multiple abstracts and proposals.

Abstracts and proposals may be either unclassified or classified. See Section 4 for detailed instructions for each type of submission related to content, format, templates, and transmission to

DARPA.

Proposers may receive multiple awards.

2. Award Information

Awards under this solicitation will be made to proposers whose proposals are determined to be the most advantageous and provide best value to the Government.

The Government reserves the right to:

• select for negotiation all, some, one, or none of the proposals received in response to this solicitation;

• fund proposals in increments with options for continued work at the end of one or more phases;

• request additional documentation once the award instrument has been determined (e.g., representations and certifications); and

• remove proposers from award consideration should the parties fail to reach agreement on award terms within a reasonable time, or the proposer fails to provide requested additional information in a timely manner.

2.1. Individual Awards

Multiple awards are anticipated in each phase of the program. DARPA intends to issue purchase orders to fund all phases of this program. The anticipated levels of funding for each phase are as follows:

• Feasibility Study (Phase 1): up to $40,000 per individual award

DARPA-BAA-16-22 Improv 8

• Prototype Construction (Phase 2): up to $70,000 per individual award

• Prototype Evaluation (Phase 3): up to $20,000 per individual award

3. Eligibility Information

Eligibility determinations are at the sole discretion of DARPA and are made on a case-by-case basis. The burden to prove the eligibility of all team members to DARPA’s satisfaction rests solely with the proposer. Therefore, all proposals must include the information requested in Sections 1, 2, and 3 of the Administrative and National Policy Requirements document (Attachment 4 to the BAA). If a team member is deemed ineligible after full deliberation of the circumstances, the proposal may be removed from consideration.

Any prospective proposers who are unsure whether they meet the eligibility requirements for this BAA should email a summary of the issue(s) to Improv@darpa.mil before time and effort are expended in preparing a proposal.

3.1. Eligible Applicants

Any responsible source (including individuals) capable of meeting all eligibility requirements and satisfying the Government's needs may submit a proposal for DARPA consideration.

3.1.1. Foreign Participation

Non-U.S. organizations and/or individuals may participate to the extent that such participants comply with any necessary and applicable nondisclosure agreements, security regulations, export control laws, and other governing statutes.

3.2. Conflicts of Interest

Current Federal employees are prohibited from participating in particular matters involving conflicting financial, employment, and representational interests (18 U.S.C. §§ 203, 205, and 208). Furthermore, without prior approval or a waiver from the DARPA Director, in accordance with FAR 9.503, a contractor cannot simultaneously provide scientific, engineering, technical assistance (SETA) or similar support and also be a technical performer. Therefore, all proposers are responsible for disclosing all facts relevant to the existence or potential existence of organizational conflicts of interest (FAR 9.5).

Prior to the start of proposal evaluations, the Government will assess potential conflicts of interest and will promptly notify the proposer if any appear to exist. The Government assessment does not affect, offset, or mitigate the proposer’s responsibility to give full notice and planned mitigation for all potential organizational conflicts (see Attachment 4 to the BAA). If in the sole opinion of the Government after full deliberation of the circumstances, a proposal fails to fully disclose potential conflicts of interest and/or any identified conflict situation cannot be effectively mitigated, the proposal will be withdrawn from consideration.

3.3. Cost Sharing/Matching

Cost sharing is not required.

DARPA-BAA-16-22 Improv 9

3.4. Ability to Support Classified Development, if applicable

Both classified and unclassified submissions are acceptable under the Improv BAA.

Proposers intending to submit classified abstracts and proposals must be capable of supporting classified design and development work. Such proposers must have either current cleared personnel and facilities approved for receiving, processing, and storing export-controlled and classified information or have recently held facility clearances (i.e., facility decertification occurred within the last 12 months).

Proposers submitting classified information must have cognizant security agency approved facilities, information systems, and appropriately cleared/eligible personnel to perform at the classification level proposed. This includes meeting the requirements set forth in DoD Manual 8570.01-M (Information Assurance Workforce Improvement Program) for all proposer personnel performing Information Assurance (IA)/Cybersecurity related duties on classified Information Systems.

For questions on security or classification issues, send an UNCLASSIFIED email request to Improv@darpa.mil. Also see Sections 4.5.2-4.5.3.

4. Application and Submission Information

DARPA policy is to treat all submissions as source selection information (see FAR 2.101 and 3.104), and to disclose their contents only for the purpose of evaluation. Restrictive notices notwithstanding, during the evaluation process submissions may be handled by support contractors for administrative purposes and/or to assist with technical evaluation. All DARPA support contractors performing this role are expressly prohibited from performing DARPA-sponsored technical research and are bound by appropriate nondisclosure agreements.

Submissions will not be returned. The original of each submission received will be retained at DARPA and all other non-required copies destroyed. A certification of destruction may be requested, provided the formal request is received at this office within 5 days after unsuccessful notification.

4.1. Address to Request Application Package

This document contains all information required to submit a response to this solicitation. No additional materials or information regarding this opportunity will be issued except as referenced herein.

4.2. Content and Form of Application Submission

All pages of all submissions shall be formatted for printing on 8-1/2 by 11 inch paper with 1-inch margins and font size not smaller than 11 point. Font sizes of 8 or 10 point may be used for figures, tables, and charts. Document files must be in .pdf, .ppt, .pptx, .odx, .doc, .docx, .xls, or .xlsx formats. Submissions must be written in English.

DARPA-BAA-16-22 Improv 10

Proposers are solely responsible for clearly identifying proprietary information. Submissions containing proprietary information must have the cover page and each page containing such information clearly marked only with the label “Company Proprietary.” Do not use the markings “Confidential” or “Secret” to identify company proprietary material.

4.2.1. Abstract Information

As stated above, all proposers are required to submit an abstract in advance of a full proposal. DARPA will respond to abstracts with a statement as to whether DARPA is interested in the idea. If submission of a full proposal is not recommended, DARPA’s response will include feedback regarding the rationale for this decision. Regardless of DARPA’s response to an abstract, proposers may submit a full proposal. DARPA will review all conforming full proposals using the published evaluation criteria and without regard to any comments resulting from the review of an abstract. Likewise, a favorable response to an abstract is not a guarantee that a proposal based on the abstract will ultimately be selected for award negotiation. Proposers may anticipate a response within approximately two weeks from the abstract submission deadline.

4.2.1.1. Abstract Format

Abstracts shall not exceed a maximum of two pages. The cover sheet does not count against the page limit. Abstracts must include the following components:

I. Cover Sheet: Provide the following information:

(1) Label: “Abstract”

(2) BAA number (DARPA-BAA-16-22)

(3) Abstract title

(4) Lead organization name

(5) Technical point of contact (POC) including name, mailing address, telephone number, and email address

(6) Administrative POC including name, mailing address, telephone number, and email address

(7) Security POC including name, mailing address, telephone number, and email address

(8) Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code

(9) Primary subcontractors (if known/applicable)

(10) Identify any other solicitation(s) to which this concept has been proposed

II. Goals and Impact: Describe the purpose of the prototype system or product. Identify the military capability that would be threatened if the new system or product were to be fully realized.

III. Technical Plan: Provide a detailed list of the major components to be acquired (including source, model #, etc.) and a discussion of the major integration tasks and processes.

IV. Capabilities/Management Plan: Provide a brief summary of expertise of the team, including subcontractors and key personnel. Identify a principal investigator for the project

DARPA-BAA-16-22 Improv 11 and include a description of the team’s organization including roles and responsibilities.

4.2.2. Full Proposal Information

All proposals must include the following seven parts. Templates containing content descriptions and instructions for parts 1 through 6 have been provided as attachments to the BAA posted at http://www.fbo.gov/. Use of these templates is mandatory for all proposal submissions to this BAA. Part 7 must comply with the abstract content and format requirements outlined herein.

1. Technical and Management Volume

2. Cost Volume

3. Cost Summary Spreadsheet

4. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

5. Statement of Work

6. Purchase Order

7. Updated Abstract

4.3. Submission Dates and Times

All times listed herein are in Eastern Time. Proposers are warned that submission deadlines as outlined herein are strictly enforced. When planning their response to this solicitation, proposers should take into account that some parts of the submission process may take from one business day to one month to complete (e.g., registering for a DUNS number or TIN).

DARPA will acknowledge receipt of complete submissions via UNCLASSIFIED email and assign identifying numbers that should be used in all further correspondence regarding those submissions. If no confirmation is received within two business days, please contact the BAA Administrator at Improv@darpa.mil to verify receipt.

Failure to comply with the submission procedures outlined herein may result in the submission not being evaluated.

4.3.1. Abstract Submission Deadline

Abstracts must be submitted per the instructions outlined herein and received by DARPA no later than 4:00 p.m. on April 13, 2016. Abstracts received after this time and date may not be reviewed.

4.3.2. Full Proposal Submission Deadline

The full proposal package, including all applicable attachments and any proprietary subcontractor cost proposals, must be submitted per the instructions outlined herein and received by DARPA no later than 4:00 p.m. on May 25, 2016. Proposals received after this time and date may not be reviewed.

4.4. Funding Restrictions

Not Applicable http://www.fbo.gov/

DARPA-BAA-16-22 Improv 12

4.5. Other Submission Requirements

Proposers must transmit all parts of their abstract or proposal package in accordance with the instructions outlined herein. Duplicate submissions must not be sent via multiple methods.

Complete submission packages are defined as follows:

• Abstracts: The single document file as described in Sections 4.2 and 4.2.1.1 above. This file may be classified or unclassified.

• Proposals: The seven document files (described in Section 4.2.2), and any proprietary subcontractor cost proposals that may be submitted separately as outlined in Attachment 2 to the BAA. Proposals may be classified or unclassified. Note: if any of the proposal files contain classified information, the overall proposal is considered classified.

4.5.1. Transmission Instructions for UNCLASSIFIED Abstracts and Proposals

Unclassified abstracts and proposals may be either mailed or hand-carried to DARPA.

Submissions sent via email or fax will not be accepted (with the exception of proprietary subcontractor cost proposals as described in Attachment 2 to the BAA). Proposers must provide two copies of every complete submission package—one paper copy and one copy on CD or DVD. Disks must be labeled with the submission title, the proposer’s name and organization, and either “Abstract” or “Proposal,” as applicable.

Submissions must be addressed to:

Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency ATTN: DARPA/DSO BAA Office Reference: DARPA-BAA-16-22

4.5.2. Transmission Instructions for CLASSIFIED Abstracts and Proposals

Proposers who do not have the capability to support classified work (see Section 3.4) or transmit classified information may skip to Section 5 below.

Classified submissions shall be transmitted by the specifically approved methods outlined herein.

Classified abstracts: Proposers must provide two copies of every complete submission package—one paper copy and one copy on CD or DVD. Disks must be labeled with “Abstract,” the submission title, and the proposer’s name and organization. The paper copy and the disk (and all files contained therein) must include applicable security markings as directed below.

Classified proposals: Complete submission packages will contain both classified and

DARPA-BAA-16-22 Improv 13 unclassified components as outlined below.

Classified Components: Technical and Management Volume (Attachment 1) and, if applicable, the Statement of Work (Attachment 5) and updated abstract. Proposers must provide one paper copy and one copy on CD or DVD (all components should be on the same disk). Disks must be labeled with “Proposal Part 1,” the submission title, and the proposer’s name and organization. The paper copy and the disk (and all files contained therein) must include applicable security markings as directed below.

Unclassified Components: Cost Volume (Attachment 2), Cost Summary Spreadsheet (Attachment 3), Administrative and National Policy Requirements (Attachment 4), Purchase Order (Attachment 6). Proposers must provide one paper copy and one copy on CD or DVD (all components should be on the same disk). Disks must be labeled with “Proposal Part 2,” the submission title, and the proposer’s name and organization.

The unclassified paper copy and disk (and all files contained therein) must be marked as

“UNCLASSIFIED.”

4.5.2.1. Confidential and Secret Information

Confidential and Secret classified information may be submitted via ONE of the two following methods:

• Hand-carried by an appropriately cleared and authorized courier to the DARPA Classified Document Registry (CDR). Prior to traveling, the courier shall contact the CDR at 703-526-4052 to coordinate arrival and delivery.

OR

• Mailed via U.S. Postal Service (USPS) Registered Mail or USPS Express Mail. All classified information will be enclosed in opaque inner and outer covers and double-wrapped. The inner envelope shall be sealed and plainly marked with the assigned classification and addresses of both sender and addressee. The inner envelope shall be addressed to:

Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency ATTN: DARPA/DSO BAA Office Reference: DARPA-BAA-16-22 675 North Randolph Street Arlington, VA 22203-2114

The outer envelope shall be sealed with no identification as to the classification of its contents and addressed to:

Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency Security & Intelligence Directorate, Attn: CDR

DARPA-BAA-16-22 Improv 14

4.5.2.2. Top Secret Information

Top Secret information must be hand-carried by an appropriately cleared and authorized courier to the DARPA CDR. Prior to traveling, the courier shall contact the DARPA CDR at 703-526-4052 to coordinate arrival and delivery.

4.5.2.3. Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) and Special Access Program (SAP) Information

Proposers intending to submit SCI or SAP information must contact the DARPA/DSO Program Security Officer for specific transmission instructions. Requests for instructions must be sent via UNCLASSIFIED email to Improv@darpa.mil.

4.5.3. Other Security Information

DARPA anticipates both classified and unclassified submissions to this BAA. Security classification guidance via a Security Classification Guide (SCG) and/or DD Form 254, “DoD Contract Security Classification Specification,” may be provided at a later date. Note: If the DD Form 254 or SCG is classified Confidential, Secret, Confidential/SAP, or Secret/SAP, it can only be mailed to the requester’s classified mailing address which must be provided to the DARPA/DSO Program Security Officer. A DD Form 254 or SCG that is classified as Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI), Top Secret, or Top Secret/SAP must be hand-carried back to proposer locations via appropriately cleared and authorized couriers. Additional SAP security requirements regarding facility accreditations, information security, personnel security, physical security, operations security, test security, classified transportation plans, and program protection planning may be specified in the DD Form 254.

Proposers whose submissions contain Classified National Security Information (as defined by Executive Order 13526) shall use classification, handling and marking guidance as outlined below:

• Confidential, Secret or Top Secret Information: Previously issued SCGs, the DoD Information Security Manual (DoDM 5200.01, Volumes 1 - 4), and the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), including the Supplement Revision 1, (DoD 5220.22-M and DoD 5200.22-M Sup. 1).

• Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI): DoDM 5105.21 Volumes 1 - 3.

• Special Access Program (SAP) Information: DoDM 5205.07 Volume 4.

Notes:

(1) Prior to drafting the submission, if use of SAP Information Systems is to be proposed, proposers must first obtain an Authorization-to-Operate from the DARPA/DSO Program Security Officer (or other applicable DARPA Authorization Official) using the Risk Management Framework (RMF) process outlined in the Joint Special Access Program (SAP) Implementation Guide (JSIG), Revision 3, dated October 9, 2013 (or successor document).

DARPA-BAA-16-22 Improv 15

(2) Proposers choosing to submit SAP information from an agency other than DARPA are required to provide the DARPA/DSO Program Security Officer written permission from the source material’s cognizant Special Access Program Control Officer (SAPCO) or designated representative. For clarification regarding this process, send an UNCLASSIFIED email to Improv@darpa.mil and request contact by the DARPA/DSO Program Security Officer.

• When the classification of a submission is in question, the submission must be appropriately and conspicuously marked with the proposed classification level and declassification date.

• Submissions requiring DARPA to make a final classification determination shall be marked as follows:

“CLASSIFICATION DETERMINATION PENDING. Protect as though classified____________________________[insert the recommended classification level, e.g., Top Secret, Secret or Confidential]”

Classified submissions must indicate the classification level of not only the submitted materials, but also the classification level of the anticipated award.

Proposers choosing to submit classified information from other classified sources (i.e., sources other than DARPA) must ensure: (1) they have permission from an authorized individual at the cognizant Government agency (e.g., Contracting Officer, Program Manager); (2) the proposal is marked in accordance with the source Security Classification Guide (SCG) from which the material is derived; and (3) the source SCG is submitted along with the proposal.

Additional information on the subjects discussed in this section may be found at http://www.dss.mil/.

5. Application Review Information

DARPA policy is to treat all submissions as source selection information (see FAR 2.101 and 3.104), and to only disclose their contents to authorized personnel. During the evaluation process, submissions may be handled by support contractors for administrative purposes and/or to assist with technical evaluation. All DARPA support contractors performing this role are expressly prohibited from performing DARPA-sponsored technical research and are bound by appropriate nondisclosure agreements.

Submissions will not be returned. The original of each submission received will be retained at DARPA and all other non-required copies destroyed.

5.1. Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated using the following criteria listed in descending order of importance: Overall Scientific and Technical Merit; Potential Contribution and Relevance to the DARPA Mission; and Cost Realism.

http://www.dss.mil/

DARPA-BAA-16-22 Improv 16

• Overall Scientific and Technical Merit The proposed technical approach is feasible, achievable, complete and supported by a proposed technical team that has the expertise and experience to accomplish the proposed tasks. The task descriptions and associated technical elements provided are complete and in a logical sequence with all proposed deliverables clearly defined such that a final outcome that achieves the goal can be expected as a result of award.

The proposed technical approach has a reasonable probability of delivering a product or system at the end of Phase 2 that demonstrates the potential to threaten some aspect of military operations.

• Potential Contribution and Relevance to the DARPA Mission

The potential contributions of the proposed effort are relevant to the national technology base. Specifically, DARPA’s mission is to maintain the technological superiority of the U.S. military and prevent technological surprise from harming national security by sponsoring revolutionary, high-payoff research that bridges the gap between fundamental discoveries and their application.

The proposed product or system is novel and nonobvious. When something is novel or nonobvious, it frequently means that very few people recognize that it is possible. If the proposed product or system may be found largely complete in a catalog or on the internet, it is probably neither novel nor nonobvious.

• Cost Realism

The proposed costs are realistic for the technical and management approach and accurately reflect the technical goals and objectives of the solicitation. The proposed costs are consistent with the proposer's Statement of Work and reflect a sufficient understanding of the costs and level of effort needed to successfully accomplish the proposed technical approach.

5.2. Proposal Review and Selection Process

DARPA will conduct a scientific/technical review of each conforming proposal. Proposals will not be evaluated against each other since they are not submitted in accordance with a common work statement. DARPA policy is to ensure impartial, equitable, comprehensive proposal evaluations and to select proposals that meet DARPA technical, policy, and programmatic goals.

The review process identifies proposals that meet the evaluation criteria described above and are, therefore, selectable for negotiation of awards by the Government. Proposals that are determined selectable will not necessarily receive awards. Selections may be made at any time during the period of solicitation. For evaluation purposes, a proposal is defined to be the documents described in Section 4.2.2.

DARPA-BAA-16-22 Improv 17

6. Award Administration Information

6.1. Selection Notices

After proposal evaluations are complete, proposers will be notified as to whether their proposal is selected for award as a result of the review process. Notification will be sent by email to the Technical and Administrative POCs identified on the proposal cover sheet. If a proposal has been selected for award, the Government will initiate the purchase order process following the notification.

6.2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

6.2.1. System for Award Management (SAM) Registration and Universal Identifier Requirements

Unless exempt from this requirement as per FAR 4.1102, all proposers must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) and have a valid Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number prior to receiving an award. All proposals must include the proposer’s DUNS number. Information on SAM registration is available at https://www.sam.gov/portal/public/SAM/. Note: new registrations can take an average of 7-10 business days to process in SAM. SAM registration requires the following information:

• DUNS number

• TIN

• CAGE Code. If a proposer does not already have a CAGE code, one will be assigned during SAM registration.

• Electronic Funds Transfer information (e.g., proposer’s bank account number, routing number, and bank phone or fax number).

6.2.2. Intellectual Property

Proposers should note that the Government does not own the intellectual property or technical data/computer software developed under Government awards. The Government acquires the right to use the technical data/computer software. Regardless of the scope of the Government’s rights, performers may freely use their same data/software for their own commercial purposes (unless restricted by U.S. export control laws or security classification). Therefore, technical data and computer software developed under this solicitation will remain the property of the performers, though DARPA will have, at a minimum, Government Purpose Rights (GPR) to technical data and computer software developed through DARPA sponsorship.

All references to "Unlimited Rights" or "Government Purpose Rights" are intended to refer to the definitions of those terms as set forth in the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement

(DFARS) 227.

6.2.2.1. Intellectual Property Representations

In order to appropriately identify any potential restrictions on the Government’s use of a proposer’s intellectual property contemplated under the award, all proposers using proprietary computer software or technical data or both in their proposed effort, in whole or in part, must clearly identify such software/data and its proposed particular use(s) in Section 5 of the https://www.sam.gov/portal/public/SAM/

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Administrative and National Policy Requirements document (Attachment 4 to the BAA). This includes both noncommercial items and commercial items. The Government may request additional information from the proposer to evaluate the proposer’s assertions. Failure to provide full information may result in a determination that the proposal is non-conforming.

6.2.2.2. Patents

All proposers using patented inventions in the proposed project which are owned by or assigned to the proposing organization or individual must provide the information requested in Section 5 of the Administrative and National Policy Requirements document (Attachment 4 to the BAA).

6.2.3. Human Subjects Research and Animal Use

No research involving human subjects or animals may be proposed under this BAA. For information on these topics, see http://www.darpa.mil/work-with-us/for-small-businesses/human-animal-research.

6.2.4. Export Control

Per DFARS 225.7901-4 and as deemed appropriate, all awards resultant from this BAA will include the DFARS Export Control clause (252.225-7048).

6.2.5. Employment Eligibility Verification

Per FAR 22.1802, all award recipients under this BAA must enroll as Federal contractors in E-verify and use the system to verify employment eligibility of all employees assigned to the award. All awards resultant from this solicitation will include FAR 52.222-54, “Employment Eligibility Verification.”

6.2.6. Representations by Corporations Regarding an Unpaid Delinquent Tax Liability or a Felony Conviction under any Federal Law

In accordance with the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2016 (Pub. L. 114-53) and any applicable subsequent FY 2016 appropriations act, all awards will include a representation that none of the funds made available by this or any other Act may be used to enter into a contract with any corporation that (1) has any unpaid Federal tax liability that has been assessed, for which all judicial and administrative remedies have been exhausted or have lapsed, and that is not being paid in a timely manner pursuant to an agreement with the authority responsible for collecting the tax liability, where the awarding agency is aware of the unpaid tax liability, unless the agency has considered suspension or debarment of the corporation and made a determination that this further action is not necessary to protect the interests of the Government; or (2) was convicted of a felony criminal violation under any Federal law within the preceding 24 months, where the awarding agency is aware of the conviction, unless the agency has considered suspension or debarment of the corporation and made a determination that this action is not necessary to protect the interests of the Government.

Proposers must provide the information requested in Section 4 of the Administrative and National Policy Requirements document (Attachment 4 to the BAA) to comply with this requirement.

http://www.darpa.mil/work-with-us/for-small-businesses/human-animal-research http://www.darpa.mil/work-with-us/for-small-businesses/human-animal-research

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6.2.7. Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) on Non-DoD Information Systems

DARPA may deem some or all information related to projects funded under this BAA to be Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). CUI refers to unclassified information that does not meet the standards for National Security Classification but still requires safeguarding or dissemination controls. Compliance with applicable law, regulations, and Government-wide policies requires organizations to execute due diligence with regard to information security.

Therefore, all awardees are expected to adhere to the following procedural safeguards, in addition to any other relevant Federal or DoD-specific procedures when dealing with DARPA CUI on non-DoD information systems:

• Do not process DARPA CUI on publicly available computers or post DARPA CUI to publicly available websites that have access limited only by domain or Internet protocol restriction.

• Ensure that all DARPA CUI is protected by a physical or electronic barrier when not under direct individual control of an authorized user and limit the transfer of DARPA CUI to subcontractors or teaming partners with a need to know and commitment to this level of protection.

• Ensure that DARPA CUI on mobile computing devices is identified and encrypted.

• Ensure that all communications regarding DARPA CUI on mobile devices or through wireless connections are protected and encrypted.

• Overwrite media that has been used to process DARPA CUI before external release or disposal.

6.2.8. Prohibition on Contracting with Entities that Require Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements

(a) In accordance with section 101(a) of the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2016 (Pub. L. 114-

53) and any subsequent FY 2016 appropriations act that extends to FY 2016 funds the same restrictions as are contained in section 743 of division E, title VII, of the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015 (Pub. L. 113-235), none of the funds appropriated (or otherwise made available) by this or any other Act may be used for a contract with an entity that requires employees or subcontractors of such entity seeking to report fraud, waste, or abuse to sign internal confidentiality agreements or statements prohibiting or otherwise restricting such employees or contactors from lawfully reporting such waste, fraud, or abuse to a designated investigative or law enforcement representative of a Federal department or agency authorized to receive such information.

(b) The prohibition in paragraph (a) of this provision does not contravene requirements applicable to Standard Form 312, Form 4414, or any other form issued by a Federal department or agency governing the nondisclosure of classified information.

(c) Representation. By submission of its offer, the Offeror represents that it does not require employees or subcontractors of such entity seeking to report fraud, waste, or abuse to sign or comply with internal confidentiality agreements or statements prohibiting or otherwise restricting such employees or contactors from lawfully reporting such waste, fraud, or abuse to a designated investigative or law enforcement representative of a Federal department or agency authorized to receive such information.

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6.3. Reporting

6.3.1. Technical and Financial Reports

The number and types of technical and financial reports required under the award will be specified in the purchase order(s).

6.3.2. Representations and Certifications

In accordance with FAR 4.1201, prospective proposers shall complete electronic annual representations and certifications at http://www.sam.gov.

6.3.3. Wide Area Work Flow (WAWF)

Unless using another means of invoicing, performers will be required to submit invoices for payment directly at https://wawf.eb.mil. If applicable, WAWF registration is required prior to award under this solicitation.

6.3.4. i-Edison

Award documents will contain a requirement for patent reports and notifications to be submitted electronically through the i-Edison Federal patent reporting system at https://public.era.nih.gov/iedison.

7. Agency Contacts

DARPA will use email for all technical and administrative correspondence regarding this solicitation.

• Technical POC: John Main, Program Manager, DARPA/DSO

• Solicitation Email (UNCLASSIFIED): Improv@darpa.mil

• Solicitation Mailing Address:

DARPA/DSO

ATTN: DARPA-BAA-16-22

• DSO Solicitation Website: http://www.darpa.mil/work-with-us/opportunities

8. Other Information

8.1. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Administrative, technical, and contractual questions should be sent via UNCLASSIFIED email to Improv@darpa.mil. Proposers who have classified questions should send an UNCLASSIFIED email to Improv@darpa.mil and request contact.

http://www.sam.gov/ https://wawf.eb.mil/ https://public.era.nih.gov/iedison mailto:Improv@darpa.mil http://www.darpa.mil/work-with-us/opportunities?tFilter=&oFilter=2&sort=name

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All questions must be in English and must include the name, email address, and the telephone number of a point of contact.

DARPA will attempt to answer questions in a timely manner; however, questions submitted within 7 days of the proposal due date may not be answered. DARPA will post an FAQ list at:

http://www.darpa.mil/work-with-us/opportunities. The list will be updated on an ongoing basis until the BAA expiration date as stated in Part I.

8.2. Proposers Day

The Improv Proposers Day will be webcast on March 29 and March 30, 2016. Advance registration is mandatory for every individual intending to view the webcast either alone or as part of a group. Only confirmed registrants may access and view the webcast. Recording of the webcast is not permitted. Viewing the webcast is voluntary and is not required to propose to this solicitation. See DARPA-SN-16-26 posted at www.fbo.gov for all details.

http://www.darpa.mil/work-with-us/opportunities?tFilter=&oFilter=2&sort=name http://www.fbo.gov/