How to bid on the NRL Long Range Broad Agency Announcement for Research

What the Naval Research Laboratory is buying

The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) is looking for innovative proposals for basic and applied research across various science and engineering fields. They are particularly interested in a new topic concerning the compatibility of fluorine-free foam with non-aspirating sprinkler nozzles, as part of their AFFF Alternative Program.

This is a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA), which means the NRL is seeking novel approaches to advance their technical areas. Awards may be in the form of contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, or other transactions.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This opportunity was published on June 24, 2026. The deadline for submitting white papers and formal proposals is September 30, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET.

To conserve resources, prospective offerors must first submit a white paper with a rough cost estimate. If the proposed research is of interest, the offeror will then be invited to submit a formal proposal.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for professional research organizations, educational institutions, small businesses, small disadvantaged business concerns, historically Black colleges and universities, and minority institutions. The NRL specifically encourages these types of organizations to submit proposals.

Firms with expertise in science and engineering, particularly those with research capabilities in fire suppression technologies and materials science, would find this relevant.

How to respond

To access the full BAA, you need to view the original source on the portal. You may need to click the link twice to get directly to the bid. A free account might be required to view documents, but not always.

First, you must submit a white paper, including a rough cost estimate, to the email address specified in the individual Summary Topics within Appendix 1 of the BAA. Only if your white paper generates interest will you be invited to submit a formal proposal.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Focus on clearly articulating the scientific merit and technical approach of your proposed research in your white paper. Ensure your rough cost estimate is realistic and well-justified.

Since this is a BAA, the government is looking for innovative solutions. Highlight how your research offers potential for advancement and improvement in the specified technical areas. Pay close attention to the new topic regarding fluorine-free foam compatibility if your expertise aligns there.

If invited to submit a formal proposal, remember that both technical approach and business/contractual aspects, including cost and cost realism, will be evaluated. Ensure your proposal is comprehensive and addresses all evaluation criteria outlined in the full BAA.