Bid guide
How to bid on Identifying the Next Generation of NSF X-Labs Topics from the National Science Foundation
What the agency is buying and why a vendor would care
The National Science Foundation (NSF) is asking for public input to help identify future topics for its NSF X-Labs Initiative. They want ideas on scientific and technology opportunities, including high-impact platform technologies, critical technical bottlenecks, necessary infrastructure, and potential partnerships. They are also interested in how dedicated X-Labs teams could speed up scientific and technological breakthroughs.
This is a Request for Information (RFI), meaning the NSF is gathering ideas for planning purposes. It is not a request for proposals or a funding opportunity, and no awards will be made from responses to this RFI. However, providing input can help shape future NSF initiatives, which could lead to opportunities later on.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
The deadline for submitting your input is October 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET. All responses must be submitted by this time.
Since this is an RFI, the NSF will use the collected information for planning and internal decision-making regarding future NSF X-Labs topics. There will be no awards or contracts issued directly from this RFI.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for organizations and individuals with expertise in scientific research, technology development, and innovation. This includes academic institutions, research firms, technology companies, and other entities involved in advanced scientific and technological fields.
The NSF is looking for insights into potential high-impact platform technologies and critical technical challenges, making this relevant for those in professional and scientific services categories.
How to respond
To access the full details of this Request for Information, you will need to go to the original source on the portal. Click the 'View original source' link. If the first click takes you to the portal's homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid.
You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all associated documents. However, for many bids, an account is not required to view the main information.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
Even though this is an RFI and not a bid for funding, your response should be clear, concise, and well-supported. Focus on providing specific, actionable insights regarding scientific and technological opportunities.
Highlight areas where dedicated teams and specific infrastructure could genuinely accelerate breakthroughs. Consider how your proposed ideas align with the NSF's mission to advance science and engineering. Clearly articulate the potential impact and feasibility of your suggestions.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from National Science Foundation; the original posting controls.