Microsystem Induced CAtalysis (MICA)

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting innovative proposals for the Microsystem Induced CAtalysis (MICA) program, seeking advanced research and development in modeling, simulation, and fabrication of microsystem-based control of catalytic molecules. The solicitation targets revolutionary scientific advances that go beyond evolutionary improvements to existing practices, with a focus on developing microsystem architectures that can control catalytic molecules through generated physical forces. Proposers must submit their abstracts by February 10, 2025, with full proposals due by March 20, 2025, and an anticipated performance start date of August 1, 2025. The program will evaluate proposals based on technical merit, with specific emphasis on functional accuracy, placement precision, and scalability of catalyst control mechanisms. Key evaluation criteria include the ability to demonstrate predictable control of catalytic chemistry using multiple physical forces and the potential for transformative scientific innovation.

The solicitation will award multiple contracts through procurement contracts or Other Transaction agreements, with a total program budget of approximately $40 million across two technical areas. The program is structured as a 39-month effort divided into two phases: Phase 1 (21 months) and Phase 2 (18 months), with an anticipated down-selection of performers at the end of the first phase. Organizations can submit proposals for one of two technical areas: TA1 for functional co-design of multiscale modeling tools, and TA2 for attachment co-design and fabrication techniques. The program has no specific set-aside designations and will offer a fixed fee range of 6.0-8.8% for cost-plus-fixed-fee contracts. Performers will be required to demonstrate increasing levels of catalyst control, progressing from controlling one catalytic chemistry in Phase 1 to six unique catalyst types in Phase 2, with placement accuracy improving from 100nm to 50nm.