How to bid on Manufacturing Demonstration Facility Technology Collaborations with DOE

What the agency is buying and why it matters

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), on behalf of the U.S. Department of Energy, is seeking industry partners for short-term, collaborative projects. The goal is to accelerate the development of new energy-efficient manufacturing technologies. This is an opportunity for U.S. manufacturers to gain access to ORNL's staff and specialized equipment to demonstrate advanced concepts and deploy new manufacturing processes or materials.

ORNL is looking for cost-shared proposals that assess new technologies to reduce manufacturing energy intensity or create new, energy-efficient products. Projects focusing on additive manufacturing or carbon fiber and composites are preferred. This is not a procurement request; instead, it is an opportunity for collaboration where ORNL provides expertise and facilities, and the industry partner contributes at least 50% of the project cost.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This opportunity was published on September 09, 2024. The deadline for submitting proposals is September 09, 2029, at 11:59 AM ET. This long deadline indicates a continuous call for proposals over several years.

At the deadline, proposals will be assessed for their applicability to new technologies that can reduce manufacturing energy intensity or produce new, energy-efficient products. Projects will be selected based on merit and alignment with the objectives of the Manufacturing Demonstration Facility.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for U.S. manufacturers that currently produce or process materials for commercial applications, or those that will be able to do so as a direct result of these collaborations. There are no restrictions on specific material systems or manufacturing processes, but projects should address advanced manufacturing and materials technologies.

Firms specializing in additive manufacturing or carbon fiber and composites will find this opportunity particularly relevant, as these areas are preferred. Projects in lightweight metals processing, roll-to-roll processing, and battery manufacturing innovative processing may also be considered if they have sufficient merit.

How to respond

To access the full details of this opportunity, click “View original source” on the portal. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid.

You may need a free account to view any associated documents, though this is not always required for all bids.

Practical tips for a competitive response

Clearly articulate the potential manufacturing and life cycle energy savings that your proposed project may achieve. Quantify these savings where possible to demonstrate the impact of your technology.

Highlight your firm's expertise and capabilities, especially in additive manufacturing or carbon fiber and composites, if applicable. If your project falls into other areas like lightweight metals or battery manufacturing, ensure you demonstrate strong merit.

Prepare a detailed cost-share plan. Remember that at least 50% cost share is required, which can be in the form of funds to ORNL or in-kind contributions such as facilities, services, and staff time. Ensure your cost-share does not come from other U.S. Government sources.