NSF Ecosystem for Low-dimensional Electronics: Growth, Assembly, Nanoelectronics, and Translation (NSF ELEGANT)

The National Science Foundation seeks an Ecosystem Coordinator and multiple Expert Performer Teams to translate low-dimensional semiconductor technologies into industrially viable manufacturing platforms under the NSF ELEGANT program, with proposals due December 18, 2026 and questions due October 15, 2026. This is an Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) solicitation with no set-aside.

Place of performance is Alexandria, Virginia. The program addresses semiconductor scaling constraints by developing quantum-confined materials—2D transition metal dichalcogenides and 1D carbon nanotubes—as alternatives to silicon-based transistors. Work spans five translation themes: Manufacturable Materials Platform; Process Technology and Process Design Kit; Device, Circuit and Full-Chip Demonstration; Manufacturing Readiness and Transition; and AI-Enabled Acceleration. Only U.S.-based incorporated entities are eligible; foreign sub-awardees are prohibited. All participants must comply with CHIPS and Science Act research security requirements, including screening against U.S. proscribed party lists and restrictions on malign foreign talent recruitment programs.

Total anticipated NSF funding is $150 million over six years, allocated as Theme 1, $43 million; Theme 2, $35 million; Theme 3, $42 million; Theme 4, $12 million; Theme 5, $6 million; and Ecosystem Coordinator, $12 million. The program consists of three successive 24-month government-funded phases with potential Phase 4 industry-led transition. Ecosystem Coordinator proposals may not exceed 20 pages; Expert Performer Team proposals may not exceed 25 pages, exclusive of title page and appendices. Phase transitions depend on Go/No-Go determinations based on quantitative, industry-informed criteria. NSF reserves the right to select multiple competing teams within single themes, conduct down-selections, or terminate awards based on technical performance and programmatic factors. Proposals are submitted to pkbreen@nsf.gov.