Questions-ONR_Navy_ManTech_sBAA_Industry_Day_Q and A SAM Posting 8.31.26.xlsx
XLSX spreadsheet 30 KB Posted
- Solicitation number
- N0001426SB002
About this file
This is a Questions and Answers document from an Office of Naval Research (ONR) Navy ManTech Industry Day addressing inquiries about a special Broad Agency Announcement (sBAA) for manufacturing innovation in naval shipbuilding and sustainment. The sBAA seeks advanced manufacturing technologies and processes to improve speed, throughput, affordability, and industrial base resilience for naval platforms, with specific focus areas including composites manufacturing for ship superstructures and hypersonic thermal protection systems, advanced welding and non-destructive testing, digital tools including augmented and virtual reality for training and remote support, and standardized execution procedures across Navy shipyards and the industrial base. The solicitation uses a two-phase white paper to full proposal down-select model, with Phase I white paper submissions evaluated approximately 30-60 days after the deadline and Phase II submissions considered on a rolling basis before the BAA closes. ONR estimates awarding 3-5 awards in the 6.2 research category and 5-10 awards in the 6.3 advanced development category, though the exact number of white papers shortlisted for full proposal invitations is not specified and depends on technical merit, funding availability, and proposed costs.
Awards under this sBAA are flexible and may be structured as firm fixed price, cost-plus fixed fee, milestone payment structures, or Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs), depending on technical risk, cost realism, and effort maturity. All responsible sources—small businesses, large businesses, academia, and non-traditional contractors—may compete directly as primes without requiring a prime sponsor, and organizations may submit multiple white papers for distinct ideas across 6.2 and 6.3 categories. Key requirements include listing NAICS code 541715 in the entity's SAM.gov profile and proposal representations and certifications, and CMMC Level 2 (Self) certification is required prior to award for any contractor or subcontractor processing controlled unclassified information (CUI). White papers must identify a specific transition partner (shipyard, depot, or prime contractor), a clear path to transition, and credible stakeholder involvement. Projects typically range from 1 to 2 years in period of performance, with no statutory minimum percentage of work required to be performed by the prime contractor, though the Government monitors for unjustified pass-through costs. The document addresses frequently asked questions regarding white paper engagement rules, evaluation processes, IP and data rights, cost-sharing, subcontractor requirements, and the use of AI in supporting evaluations (though final selection and award decisions remain solely the responsibility of Government personnel).
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| File | Type | Posted |
|---|---|---|
| Navy ManTech sBAA Opportunity Guide Industry Day Slides.pptx | PPTX presentation | |
| N0001426SB002 Amendment 0001.pdf |
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Copy of Questions-ONR_Navy_ManT
| Question | Answer |
| What is being done to align and streamline contracting to support rapid change? | The clearest evidence is the sBAA solicitation structure itself: Amendment 0001 added OTA guidance, uses a white paper to full proposal down-select model, allows ONR to refocus scope, and permits follow-up inquiries before award. From an acquisition-informed perspective, those are classic tools to reduce cycle time, improve fit-to-need, and preserve flexibility in R&D acquisitions. |
| What composites manufacturing innovations are needed right now? What composites applications are important? | The sBAA highlights manufacturing processes for composites to reduce weight, enhance performance, and mitigate corrosion. Key applications include ship superstructures, masts, and internal components, as well as high-temperature Thermal Protection Systems for hypersonic applications and resilient materials for supply chain stability. |
| Can ONR or the Navy let small businesses apply directly and start the FCL/clearance process without a Prime sponsor? | While ONR encourages small business participation, the FCL (Facility Clearance) process is typically sponsored by a government entity or a prime contractor for a specific contractual need. A small business cannot self-sponsor. You must have a contractual need for access to classified information. |
| Will there be any effort to standardize execution procedures (i.e. weld procedures) across the navy and industrial base? | This is a key goal. The ManTech program supports developing and transitioning technologies, like advanced welding and NDT, which inherently drive toward standardized, qualified procedures to ensure quality, interoperability, and efficiency across different shipyards and suppliers in the industrial base. |
| Would the enablement of distance support through things like live streaming or augmented reality help speed up actions in the shipyard? | Yes. The ManTech program invests in digital tools, including Augmented and Virtual Reality, for training and remote support. These technologies have proven to significantly reduce the time for the workforce to gain proficiency and can accelerate troubleshooting and expert oversight in the shipyard. |
| ONR accept proposals for proven advanced manufacturing tech or process success in allied oconus yard, adapt to US show in US production improve cost quality time | Yes. The sBAA is open to all responsible sources. Though a technology proven in an allied yard can be adapted to the U.S. industrial base to improve throughput, affordability, or capability for naval platforms, domestically sourced technologies and execution teams are preferred. The proposal must clearly articulate the teaming strategy, transition plan, and benefits. |
| What are the engagement rules once you submit a white paper? Can you reach out to Program Manager directly? | Once submitted, Government reviewers will conduct white paper evaluation and may conduct follow-up inquiries to clarify white paper concepts or suggest modifications, and the Technical POC may provide feedback via email after the initial appraisal. |
| Will a white paper that was not selected for Phase 1 be automatically considered for Phase 2 or is resubmission required? |
White papers submitted during the Phase I submission timeframe but not selected for Phase I Proposal stage may be selected for Phase II white paper applicability based on results of Phase I white paper evaluation. Notification will be provided for each submission that clearly states whether a Phase I white paper submission is 1.) selected to receive a Request for Proposal (RFP), 2.) not selected to receive an RFP but to be retained for Phase II white paper consideration, or 3.) not selected for continued consideration. White paper selections and RFPs are subject to funding availability.
| How much down selecting do you plan to do from white paper to RFP? | The sBAA does not state a fixed number of down-selected white papers. The Government will evaluate white papers to identify concepts of significant value and strategic relevance, and only those deemed promising will be encouraged to submit a full proposal. So there is a down-select, but no guaranteed count or percentage is known or provided. Currently, the Government expects 3-5 6.2 awards and 5-10 6.3 awards overall. The ratio of white papers to RFP depends on technical merit and funds. |
| What type of contract awards will you make through this sBAA? | Flexible awards based on the effort and award instrument. This sBAA includes both procurement contracts and Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs). Within contract awards, there may be firm fixed price, cost plus fixed fee, or milestone payment structures depending on technical risk, cost realism, maturity, the nature of the work and if the offeror has an approved accounting system. Under general federal acquisition practice, R&D efforts with higher uncertainty are often structured as cost-reimbursement, while more defined efforts may support fixed-price structures; OTAs provide additional flexibility where authorized and may require a fixed price milestone structure and/or 50/50 cost share. |
| Can one company submit multiple white papers? | Yes. All responsible sources may submit multiple white papers. |
| You indicated the number of potential awards in each area, but how many proposals will be short listed from white paper submissions to submit full proposals? | The sBAA gives estimated award counts for Phase I funding bands, but it does not disclose how many white papers will be shortlisted for full proposals. White papers offering significant value and strategic relevance may be encouraged to submit detailed full proposals and this will be decided based on estimated funding once known to ONR. ONR reserves the right to fund all, some, or none of the proposals received. |
| At the white paper stage, how firm does the transition partner and the “designated funding path” need to be? | While a fully executed agreement is not required, the white paper should identify a specific target naval platform or industrial facility and describe the degree to which key stakeholders are involved. A credible, well-defined "Path to Transition" is a key component of the white paper evaluation. |
| If adding NAICS Code 541715 where do we have to certify it? | The sBAA states that the ONR Representations and Certifications must include this NAICS code and that the offeror submission must include Section K with the NAICS information. It also states the prospective awardee must have the corresponding NAICS code listed in the entity's SAM.gov profile. |
| If our white paper targets 6.2, but it’s better suited for 6.3, will the government provide this feedback and allow the bidder to resubmit with edits? | Yes, this is possible. The government may provide feedback and suggest modifications to a white paper to better align it with program priorities and funding categories before requesting a full proposal. The goal is to maximize benefit to the Navy. |
| Could we leverage our teaming partners (subs) JCP and CMMC to qualify? or does Prime need these two for compliance to bid and prime? | The Prime offeror must meet the primary compliance requirements. While teaming partner credentials strengthen a proposal, the Prime is ultimately responsible for the bid. CMMC Level 2 is required for any system (prime or sub) processing CUI, and an active JCP certification is a key organizational credential. | |
| We have different NAICS codes on our Sam.gov, do we need to add the 541715 to apply | Yes, if you expect to be awardable under this sBAA. The sBAA states the prospective awardee must have the corresponding NAICS code listed in its SAM.gov profile, and the proposal’s Section K reps/certs must include that NAICS code information. | |
| Is CMMC level 2 required before award? What about JCP? | Prime credentials carry weight. However, CMMC Level 2 Self is required prior to award for *each* contractor/subcontractor system processing CUI/FCI. | |
| Are these awards fixed cost, cost reimbursable, cost plus, or flexible based on situation? | Flexible based on the effort and award instrument. This sBAA includes both contracts and Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs). Within contract awards, there may be firm fixed price, cost plus fixed fee, or milestone payment structures depending on technical risk, cost realism, maturity, the nature of the work and if the offeror has an approved accounting system. Under general federal acquisition practice, R&D efforts with higher uncertainty are often structured as cost-reimbursement, while more defined efforts may support fixed-price structures; OTAs provide additional flexibility where authorized and may require a fixed price milestone structure and/or 50/50 cost share. | |
| What qualifies you as a prime. As a small business can you apply without a prime | Yes. Under this sBAA, a small business may submit directly as the prime offeror if it is the entity proposing directly to the Government and is otherwise eligible and responsible. In federal acquisition practice, the “prime” is simply the contractor in direct privity with the Government; it does not mean a firm must have a larger sponsor above it. The solicitation states that all responsible sources from industry, academia, and the research community may submit proposals, and all businesses, both small and large, are encouraged to compete. As a practical matter, the prime must be able to satisfy proposal, responsibility, security, and performance requirements, including any applicable SAM, NAICS, JCP, CMMC, and subcontract-management obligations. | |
| Are applications reviewed and awarded on a rolling basis? Or will all phase I proposals be evaluated together after Sep 15? | For Phase I, an initial batch review will be conducted following the submission due date: white paper outcomes will be issued approximately 30–60 days following the Phase I white paper submission due date. For Phase II, submissions may be considered at any time before closing, which is effectively rolling subject to funding and amendments. | |
| How many white papers will be short listed for full proposals | The sBAA gives estimated award counts for Phase I funding bands, but it does not disclose how many white papers will be shortlisted for full proposals. White papers offering significant value and strategic relevance may be encouraged to submit detailed full proposals and this will be decided based on estimated funding once known to ONR. ONR reserves the right to fund all, some, or none of the proposals received. | |
| Is a proposal only possible after an invitation following the white paper? | Yes, under this sBAA process. White paper submission is the initial step and offerors whose white papers are deemed promising will be encouraged to submit a detailed full proposal. Any offeror whose white paper was not identified as being of particular value is ineligible to submit a full proposal under this sBAA. | |
| Sorry for the commercial question, but is there $ value band or idea for after the prototype? So $3M for intiail award, then goes to production? What's $ value? | The sBAA targets development and maturation of transitionable technologies. Implementation requirements following conclusion of a project awarded under this sBAA effort will likely require external funding for execution of those activites. The value depends entirely on the specific technology, the scale of implementation, and the needs of the designated naval platform. There is no pre-defined value band for production contracts conducted external to this sBAA. Implementaion potential and transition plan are key evaluation parameters of this sBAA. | |
| Are prime contractors required to perform a certain percentage of the work vs the subcontractor? | This sBAA is not a small business set-aside. Therefore, the limitation on subcontracting rule does not apply. Whether the prime contractor is a large or small business, there is no statutory minimum percentage of the work they must execute themselves. While there is no limitation on subcontracting rule, the Government does review and monitor for unjustified pass through costs. Please reference FAR 52.215-22 and FAR 52.215-23. | |
| Is there an ideal project duration? | The stated period of performance for projects may range from 1 to 2 years. So while the sBAA does not say “ideal,” that is the expected duration range for proposed efforts. | |
| How do you feel about WPs with options? If selected for full proposal would you provide feedback (like, include option 1 but not 2)? | White papers with options are acceptable. If your white paper is selected, the government may provide feedback on which options to include or exclude from the full proposal to align the scope with Navy priorities and available funding. | |
| We submitted a white paper to the long range BAA, but no Program Officer reviewed it. Will all white papers get reviewed and how long does it take? | All white papers submitted under this sBAA will be reviewed. The sBAA states that for Phase I, notifications will be issued 30-60 days after the submission deadline. Phase II submissions may be reviewed at any time before the BAA closes. | |
| If selected for a full proposal, will ONR provide any feedback? Any opportunity for discussions to hone approach/scope? OTAs allow for more collaboration. | The sBAA states that the government may conduct follow-up inquiries to clarify concepts or suggest modifications. This allows for collaboration to refine the scope and approach before a final award decision, a process that is particularly well-supported by Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs). | |
| Are there white paper templates or just proposal templates? | The sBAA provides specific white paper format requirements rather than mandatory templates, such as: 5 pages, 12-point Times New Roman, one-inch margins, Word preferred or searchable PDF, plus a one-page project lead resume, and other white paper requirements; you must consult the sBAA document for specifics. For full proposals, the sBAA references specific templates your organization is required to use. | |
| Are CRADA (cooperative research agreements) an option? | No. This sBAA only provides for procurement contracts and OTAs. | |
| Is this focused on manuf. improvements for existing systems, or would ONR consider new component technologies (I.e. heat exchanger) that leverage adv. manuf. | Both are of interest. The sBAA seeks to accelerate throughput, affordability, and capability. This includes process improvements for existing systems as well as new component technologies that leverage advanced manufacturing to replace legacy parts, reduce cost, and increase production speed. | |
| Are you sponsoring any demo day funding that CNR a mentioned in previous industry days for FY26 $? | This sBAA is a separate funding opportunity. Any funding for other events, like demo days, would be announced separately. This sBAA is focused on the specific technology areas outlined in the announcement for FY27 funding. | |
| Is there a font size limits for figures? | The white paper requirements specify 12-point Times New Roman with one-inch margins. While there is no explicit separate font size limit for figures, captions and limited explanatory text within figures may utilize a smaller, legible font. However, this must not be used to circumvent the 12-point font requirement for narrative text in the white paper or proposal body. | |
| For a component-level manufacturing technology, does ONR prefer the white paper name a transition partner (shipyard, depot, prime, or ManTech Center) at submission, or is identifying one during Phase-1 acceptable? | It is highly preferred to name a specific transition partner at submission. "Implementation Potential," including a designated platform or facility and stakeholder involvement, is a key evaluation criterion for the white paper. | |
| Which ManTech Center of Excellence would be the right home for metalworking/fixturing technology - iMAST or another? | Centers of Excellence are Navy ManTech's primary method for execution of standard activites, but are not included within execution of this sBAA and associated funding. However for core ManTech opportunities, ManTech COEs are the approriate mechanism for enagement and project development. Please refreence the Navy ManTech website for a list of each COE and associated technical area descriptiion. (https://www.onr.navy.mil/work-with-us/navy-mantech) | |
| Is it possible to propose a Naval War College professor as a subcontractor or consultant on a future BAA proposal or white paper; or is this a conflict of interest and not allowed? | The sBAA does not contain a blanket prohibition on such employment as a subcontractor or consultant. Teams are encouraged, and partnering among industry, academia, and Government is viewed favorably where it enhances transition potential. However, whether a particular individual may participate depends on ethics, conflict-of-interest, and outside-activity rules applicable to that person and institution. So the safe answer is: potentially yes, but it must be reviewed under applicable ethics and institutional approval rules before relying on it and any conflict of interest provisions as substantiated in the sBAA document. | |
| If submitting multiple submissions do we need to submit reps and certs with every submission? | If your organization is invited to submit a proposal, for each proposal submission that occurs, Representations and Certifications are required for each proposal submission. | |
| Will the program officers be the ones who evaluate the white papers? | Yes. The sBAA states DOW-approved AI platforms may be used in supporting data collection and evaluations of proposals submitted under this sBAA. However, selection and award decisions are solely the responsibility of Government personnel. Non-Government reviewers may be used to support assessments, but offical evaluations will be conducted by Government program officers. Please see the sBAA section titled Evaluation Panel for additional information. | |
| Can we use the “Interested Vendors” potions of the Sam.Gov to identify partners? | Your organization may use the interested vendors portion of Sam.gov to identify partners. Additionally, please see the sBAA section titled Facilitating Subcontracting Arrangements for faciliation to identify partners. | |
| For applicants who are not yet CMMC Level 2 ceritified, do you have a recommended place to go for information on how to acquire the certification, or to become certified? | The DoW Chief Information Officer's CMMC website, https://dodcio.defense.gov/CMMC/, provides CMMC descriptions, resources, and FAQs. The website states the CMMC Accreditation Body, currently the Cyber AB, has a marketplace of certified CMMC assessors, professionals, and registered practitioner organizations that companies can engage now to prepare for CMMC implementation: https://cyberab.org/marketplace. | |
| Will the Intellectual Property that is provided become the property of ONR, or the Department of the Navy? | Not automatically. Under general federal acquisition practice, intellectual property and data rights depend on the award instrument, funding source, negotiated terms, and the rights asserted in the proposal. The sBAA specifically notes that implementation potential will heavily consider proposed IP and data-rights assertions, which implies rights will be evaluated and negotiated rather than automatically transferred wholesale to ONR or the Department of the Navy. | |
| Will there be any idea/project matchmaking between submitters post white paper submission? | The sBAA does not mention a formal matchmaking process post-submission. However, it encourages teaming and provides resources for finding partners, such as the Interested Vendors list on SAM.gov and the ONR Small Business Office. | |
| Do you have an estimate of how many ideas/projects will progress at each phase? White papers accepted (Phase I & II)? RFPs submitted (Phase I & II)? Etc. | The sBAA states an expectation to fund 3-5 6.2 awards and 5-10 6.3 awards. It does not specify the number of white papers that will be accepted or how many RFPs will be issued to reach that number of awards. The number of accepted white papers accepted and RFPs submitted is currently uncertain due to variability in the amount of avaialable funding and the proposed cost provided in Phase I / II white papers. | |
| How long is the period of performance for delivery if selected? Is there a preference to a shorter delivery timeframe if it increases costs? | The stated Period of Performance is 1 to 2 years. While speed is a priority, proposals are evaluated on Financial and Schedule Feasibility. A shorter timeframe at a significantly higher cost would need strong justification of its value. | |
| Is there an ideal projection duration? | The stated Period of Performance is 1 to 2 years, which serves as the expected project duration. | |
| Is there a minimum or maximum subcontract limit and by extension a minimum or maximum percent of work that needs to be done by the prime? | This sBAA is not a small business set-aside. Therefore, the limitation on subcontracting rule does not apply. Whether the prime contractor is a large or small business, there is no statutory minimum percentage of the work they must execute themselves. While there is no limitation on subcontracting rule, the Government does review and monitor for pass through costs to prevent prime contractors from acting as empty shells to collect fee. Please reference FAR 52.215-22 and FAR 52.215-23. | |
| Is the excel cost proposal available within the BAA -A link- or it is available somewhere else? | The Excel cost proposal template is available at https://www.onr.navy.mil/work-with-us/how-to-apply/submit-contract-proposal and through links in the sBAA document. | |
| Is there any value to having an AUKUS solution? | While not an explicit technical or evaluaiton focus, a solution that enhances manufacturing capabilities and is relevant to platforms used by AUKUS partners could be seen as having broader strategic value, assuming it meets the sBAA's core technical and naval relevance criteria. | |
| Are there cost share requirements or benefits of partnering with non-traditional contractors? | The sBAA itself does not state a universal cost-share requirement for all offers in the retrieved passages. It does, however, strongly encourage collaborative teams and emphasizes non-traditional suppliers. Where an OTA becomes the award vehicle, cost-share and nontraditional-contractor participation may become more important under the applicable OTA framework. Even outside that context, partnering with non-traditional firms can strengthen innovation and transition potential. | |
| How many WPs will be selected for full proposal request? | The sBAA does not specify a number. The government will encourage full proposals from any white paper deemed to have significant value and strategic relevance, subject to the availability of funds. | |
| Is this solicitation directly focused on manufacturing / process improvements for existing systems / components, or would ONR consider new components (heat exchangers for example) that leverage advanced manufacturing that could replace older component technologies, and reduce speed and cost for manufacturing? | It is focused on both. The sBAA seeks innovations that enhance throughput, affordability, and capability for manufacturing of next-generation platforms. This includes both process improvements for existing platforms and integration of new products that leverage advanced manufacturing to achieve those same goals. White papers and proposals should articulate a clear development requirement for the proposed technology. | |
| For manufacturers that have invented new scaled production methods, but don’t have a specific “project”, can MRL be substituted for TRL? If not, how should we approach this? | Both MRL (Manufacturing Readiness Level) and TRL (Technology Readiness Level) are useful metrics for the ManTech program. Though TRL has historically been the preferred method, either TRL or MRL may be method used to identify technology maturity level. | |
| Will you be using AI to score the white papers? | The sBAA states DOW-approved AI platforms may be used in supporting data collection and evaluations of proposals submitted under this sBAA. However, selection and award decisions are solely the responsibility of Government personnel. Please see the sBAA section titled Evaluation Panel for additional information. | |
| How do you feel about white papers that include options for scope and funding variability? | White papers with options are acceptable and can be a good way to provide flexibility. If your white paper is selected, ONR may provide feedback on which options to include in the full proposal to align with funding and priorities. | |
| What are you looking for in the project lead? Does it have to be one individual? | The project lead should be a designated employee or resource associated with the proposing organization with the technical and managerial expertise to lead the effort. A one-page resume for this individual is a required part of the white paper submission. | |
| Will you publish industry day attendees with contact info to facilitate teaming? | Industry Day attendees will not be posted due to PII restrictions. Organization are encouraged to use the interested vendors portion of Sam.gov to identify partners. Additionally, please see the sBAA section titled Subcontracting Resources for a list of resources for use in identifying potential partners. | |
| SBIR derived tech encouraged? Any bias there one way or another? | There is no bias against SBIR-derived technology. In fact, transitioning successful SBIR technologies is encouraged. Each white paper and proposal will be evaluated on its own merits according to the criteria in the sBAA. | |
| Would a company's SBIR phase 3 sole source contact be a valid contracting vehicle to use for this? | No. This sBAA is a competitive process. Submission of a white paper is required for invitation to submit a full proposal. An existing SBIR Phase III contract cannot be used as the vehicle for an award under this separate announcement. | |
| What are the practical implications for companies now that OTAs are possible with this sBAA? Are there specific advantages for small firms to seek that vehicle? Should our white papers include a proposed contract structure? | The practical implication is that ONR now has more flexibility in how it can structure selected awards, particularly for prototype-like efforts. For small or nontraditional firms, OTAs can sometimes reduce administrative burden and allow more flexible business terms than a traditional FAR-based contract. That said, the solicitation does not require offerors to force-fit a vehicle selection in the white paper. The better approach is to describe the effort clearly, and if an OTA structure is especially advantageous, explain why at a high level without turning the white paper into a legal vehicle argument. If your white paper is selected for a full proposal submission, contract or OTA may be proposed and negotiated later. | |
| Can a vendor (prime or sub) submit multiple white papers if they have several distinct ideas/proposals? 6.2 vs. 6.3? | Yes. A vendor can submit multiple white papers for distinct ideas. Each white paper should be a standalone submission and clearly identify its proposed funding category (6.2 or 6.3) and alignment with the sBAA's technical focus areas. | |
| Is ONR able to suggest teaming during review or is there a way for submitters to otherwise know of other submitters? | Your organization may use the interested vendors portion of Sam.gov to identify partners. Additionally, please see the sBAA section titled Facilitating Subcontracting Arrangements for facilitation to identify partners. | |
| Is there a limit on the number of proposals submitted by a company? | There is no limit on the number of white papers a responsible organization may submit. A full proposal may only be submitted if invited by ONR to make a full proposal submission. | |
| Any tips for unsticking a Sam.gov registration? We’ve submitted, verified our tax, and completed the Response Required verification email (multiple times) but continue to be rejected without reason by SAM | The practical acquisition answer is to work through SAM.gov help resources, entity validation support, and your assigned case/ticket process as early as possible, because SAM issues can delay award eligibility even if your technical submission is strong. The Sam.gov website provides Customer Service solutions and methods to conduct the Federal Service Desk for assistance. | |
| Is there a CMMC level 2 (self) requirement? If so, at time of WP, at time of full proposal, or at time of award? | There is a CMMC Level 2 (Self) requirement stated in the sBAA and within the DFARS 252.204-7025 provision. CMMC Level 2 (Self) is required prior to award. | |
| Will companies with a FCL receive preferential treatment? | No preferential treatment is stated. However, if the proposed work requires access to classified information, having an existing FCL would demonstrate organizational capability and could expedite the contracting process if selected for award. Please note the guidance provided within the sBAA for submission of classified questions, white papers, and proposals. | |
| Can we submit 6.2 and 6.3 proposals simultaneously, on different topics? | Yes. You can submit multiple white papers for different topics, and they can be for the same or different funding categories (6.2 or 6.3). Each submission will be evaluated independently. | |
| Do you encourage projects below the 6.2 or 6.3 ceiling? Like a $500k 6.2 submission vs $3m | Yes. The funding values are ranges, not minimums. A well-scoped project with a clear, high-impact ROI at a lower cost will be viewed favorably. The key is justifying the cost relative to the proposed work and potential benefit. | |
| Do Subcontractors need to submit this price proposal as a separate submission? | Each subcontractor needs to provide a separate Cost Proposal Excel template if the prime has been requested to submit a full proposal. The best way for each subcontractor to submit their cost proposal is to submit it to the prime contractor, who will then forward the subcontractor cost proposal information as a part of the prime contractor's full proposal submission. If a subcontractor will not provide their cost proposal information to the prime contractor, the sBAA states that subcontract information can be submitted via email to the Program Officer if the subcontract information is proprietary, and it explains that the email should identify the proposal title, the prime offeror, and that the attachment is a subcontract with a description of the effort. That means subcontract cost information may need separate handling in some cases, but it is still tied to the prime’s proposal rather than treated as an independent standalone proposal to the Government. | |
| One considers proven advanced manufacturing technologies | ||
| & processes done internationally adapt to US and demo and quantify improvements? | Yes, this is a potential approach. White papers and proposals should articulate a development need for the proposed technology and be applicable for domestic use. Proposals that adapt and transition proven international technologies to the U.S. industrial base to demonstrate and quantify improvements in cost, quality, or schedule for naval platforms will be considered. | |
| Do subcontractors need to have Sam registrations and NAICS code? | Subcontractors do not need an active, full SAM.gov profile to receive a subcontract. However, federal transparency rules (FFATA) require first-tier subcontractors to have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) so the Prime can report the subcontract award. Note: Many Prime contractors will mandate full SAM registration in their own internal teaming agreements as a best practice for vetting, but the Government does not strictly mandate it for the sub. | |
| I’m confused if this is just for small businesses. You mentioned the specific NAICS is required and is only for companies with 1000 or less employees. | No, this is not just for small businesses. The sBAA says all responsible sources may submit and specifically states that all businesses, both small and large, are encouraged to compete. The NAICS listing and small-business size standard are part of acquisition administration, but they do not make the entire sBAA small-business-only. The specifics NAICS is used to identify if your organization will be treated as a small business or other than small business. | |
| Is the small business classification based on NAICS code only? Are there any Ownership requirements? | ||
| What if a company is majority owned by private equity, under 1000 people? | The sBAA itself identifies the applicable NAICS code and the corresponding size standard of 1,000 employees, but it does not provide detailed SBA affiliation or ownership analysis in the retrieved text. Under general federal acquisition practice, size status is not determined by headcount alone; affiliation and ownership rules can matter. So a private-equity-owned firm under 1,000 employees should not assume it qualifies as small without a proper size analysis under SBA rules. | |
| If you’re a solution that addresses multiple ONR needs, should we write to just one or can we address the white paper to multiple needs? | Your white paper should be focused. While you can mention broader applicability, it is best to address a primary technical focus area and platform need. This demonstrates a clear understanding of a specific problem and a targeted solution. | |
| Is it correct that proposals are ONLY considered after an invitation is granted following a white paper submission? | Yes, that is correct. The sBAA uses a two-step process. You must submit a white paper and be formally encouraged by the government to submit a full proposal. Unsolicited full proposals will not be considered. | |
| For 6.3 proposals my understanding is you expect projects to exit at TRL/MRL 6/7, do you have requirements on what TRL/MRL a technology starts at? | The sBAA does not specify a starting TRL/MRL. However, a 6.3 proposal should demonstrate a credible path to reach TRL/MRL 6-7 within the 1-2 year period of performance, implying the starting point should be mature enough (e.g., TRL/MRL 4 or 5) to make that feasible. | |
| At the white paper stage, how firm does the transition partner and the “designated funding path” need to be? | The transition partner and funding path need to be credibly identified. While a formal agreement isn't required at the white paper stage, a proposal that names a specific shipyard, program office, and potential funding source will be viewed as having a much stronger "Implementation Potential." |
| Could we leverage our teaming partners (subs) JCP and CMMC to qualify? or does Prime need those two to qualify to bid? | The Prime must be able to meet the core requirements. While strong partners are beneficial, the government's relationship is with the Prime. A Prime cannot solely rely on a subcontractor's certifications to qualify for the bid itself. CMMC, in particular, applies to any company handling CUI. | |
| Can an org submit more than 1 WP? | Yes. The sBAA states that all responsible sources may submit proposals, and there is no limit on the number of distinct white papers an organization can submit. | |
| Do we need to apply to phase I in order to qualify for phase II? | No. Phase II is a separate submission period. You do not need to have submitted a white paper in Phase I to be eligible to submit one during the Phase II window. | |
| What type of contract awards can you provide through this sBAA? FFP? | Flexible awards based on the effort and award instrument. This sBAA includes both procurement contracts and Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs). Within contract awards, there may be firm fixed price, cost plus fixed fee, or milestone payment structures depending on technical risk, cost realism, maturity, the nature of the work and if the offeror has an approved accounting system. Under general federal acquisition practice, R&D efforts with higher uncertainty are often structured as cost-reimbursement, while more defined efforts may support fixed-price structures; OTAs provide additional flexibility where authorized and may require a fixed price milestone structure and/or 50/50 cost share. |
File details come from the government source that posted it. Updated .