AFOSR FY26 Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA) for Integrated Programmatic and Technical Support to increase Technology Transition & Transfer and Collaborative Project Orders (CPOs)

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to clarification questions submitted by potential offerors regarding the AFOSR PIA RFP (FA955026RPIA1).

• Period of Performance for Six-Month Extension: Offerors should assume continuation of all contract elements, including facilities, for the optional six-month extension. Proposals must include pricing for this extension to be considered compliant.
• Incumbent Contractor: The incumbent contractor is Virginia Tech Applied Research Corporation, FA9550-22-3-0002.
• University Eligibility: Bidders are directed to the Eligibility Determination section of the solicitation for information on university eligibility for the PIA.
• Payment Methodology: For this fixed-price grant, funding will be obligated at the CPO level. Payment instructions will be provided within each CPO, referencing Article 4.2 of the Model Agreement. Payment structures (milestone, deliverable, or schedule-based) will be defined at the CPO and Project Plan level, as detailed in Article 4.9 of the Model Agreement.

This document clarifies requirements related to the period of performance, pricing for extensions, and payment methodology. Bidders must ensure their proposals include pricing for the optional six-month extension to maintain compliance.

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to questions submitted by potential offerors regarding the AFOSR PIA RFP (FA955026RPIA1). It clarifies various aspects of the solicitation, including past performance, contract structure, facilities, cost/pricing, and operational details.

• Past Performance: Offerors may reference past performance from a wholly owned subsidiary if the relationship is clearly described, the subsidiary's capabilities will support performance, and the performing entity and roles are identified.
• Contract Structure & Pricing: The agreement is a fixed-price type. Offerors should propose pricing according to solicitation instructions, accounting for potential activities outlined in the Statement of Objectives (SOO). Travel requirements will vary and should be accounted for based on the SOO. Facility costs should be incorporated into indirect rates unless directly attributable to a single CPO, in which case they are fixed-rate direct costs. Profit or fee is unallowable.
• Facilities: The government will not provide lease allowances, market research, or site visits for facilities. Offerors must propose their own facility solutions and should not assume existing leases will transfer. Incumbent facility details (addresses, agreements, floor plans, costs, IT infrastructure) are not provided.
• Ancillary Information: The anticipated start date is on or about May 15, 2026. The award is intended for a single awardee, though multiple are possible. Advance payments are not applicable. The Base PIA will not have associated funds; financial reporting is at the CPO level.

This document clarifies key areas of the solicitation, particularly regarding pricing, facility acquisition, and past performance, enabling offerors to refine their proposals. It confirms the fixed-price nature of the agreement and provides guidance on how to account for various costs and requirements.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a Microsoft Excel workbook containing a price proposal template for the "AFOSR FY26 Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA) for Integrated Programmatic and Technical Support to increase Technology Transition & Transfer and Collaborative Project Orders (CPOs)" (RFP #: FA955026RPIA1). It provides guidance on the format and details required for submitting pricing.

• Instructions Sheet: Outlines requirements for completing the template, including linking formulas, identifying subcontractor/collaborator pricing separately, and noting that direct facility costs are not reimbursable. It also states that profit or fee is unallowable.
• Summary Sheet: A high-level overview where bidders must input their Contractor Name, SAM UEI, and Proposal Submission Date. It includes fields for Collaborative Project Orders (CPOs) such as CPO Number, Description, Type, and pricing for Base Period, Option Periods 1-4, and a 6-Month Extension of Services, culminating in a Total Evaluated Price.
• CPO Specific Sheets (AFOSR CPO, AFCENT CPO, SSC CPO Colorado, SSC CPO Virginia, NRO CPO): Detailed breakdown sheets for labor and other direct costs (ODCs) for each CPO. These require identification of company name and role, SOW task(s), labor categories, key personnel, salary, hours, rates, fringe, G&A, and subtotals. ODCs include facilities, travel, equipment, and subscriptions.
• Facility Pricing by Site Sheet: A section to detail proposed facility pricing by location, including square footage, price per square foot, monthly rent, and yearly costs.

This template is crucial for bidders to accurately format and submit their pricing proposals. It specifies the required level of detail for labor and other direct costs, including subcontractor contributions. Bidders must ensure all calculations are correct, formulas are included and not locked, and that pricing is traceable. The template also highlights that direct facility costs are not reimbursable and profit/fee is unallowable for this PIA.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This Request for Proposal (RFP) FA955026RPIA1 seeks a Partnership Intermediary (PI) to provide Integrated Programmatic and Technical Support to increase Technology Transition & Transfer and Collaborative Project Orders (CPOs) for the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR). The goal is to facilitate technology transfer and transition from Air Force research into practical applications and foster partnerships.

The PI will focus on eight key areas: partnership development, technology transfer/transition, technology scouting, STEM/workforce development, access to technical expertise, data tools development, governance support, and communications outputs. The PI will serve as a matchmaker between laboratories and industry/academia.

• Contract Type: Fixed Price Agreement.

• Period of Performance: 60 months, plus a 6-month option.

• Estimated Program Ceiling: Not to exceed $80M for the PIA.

• Profit/Fee: Unallowable under this PIA.

• Collaborative Project Orders (CPOs): Five initial CPOs are anticipated with estimated ceilings ranging from $2.8M to $11.7M each. Each CPO has a 60-month period of performance (12-month base + four 12-month options) plus a 6-month extension.

• Proposal Submission Deadline: 10:00 AM Eastern on April 4, 2026.

• Submission Method: Electronically to AFRL.AFOSR.PIA@us.af.mil.

• Proposal Volumes: Technical/Management (Volume I), Price Documentation (Volume II), Proposal Documentation (Volume III), Past Performance (Volume IV).

• Evaluation Factors: Price Analysis/Financial Management, Technical/Management (Capability & Program Management), Past Performance.

• Best Value Tradeoff (BVTO): Award will be made on a best-value basis.

• Set-Aside: No small business set-aside.

• Eligibility: Must meet the definition of a "Partnership Intermediary (PI)" as defined in 10 U.S.C. § 4124(f)(2) and 15 U.S.C. § 3715(c). This includes agencies of state/local government or non-profit entities owned, chartered, funded, or operated by/on behalf of state/local government. Specific documentation is required to prove eligibility.

• SAM.gov Registration: Required for all applicants.

• Place of Performance: Primarily PI leased facilities within one mile of specified Government or partner activities. Government will not reimburse direct facility costs. Specific square footage and locations are detailed for AFOSR, USSF (SSC) - VA, USSF (SSC) - Colorado Springs, and NRO.

• Security: Reference Attachment J-8 (DD254). Three personnel require TS/SCI clearance for SSC and AFCENT CPO support.

• No GFP: Government Furnished Property is not anticipated.

• Proposal Costs: The Government will not fund proposal development costs.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "ATTACHMENT J-5 MODEL AGREEMENT – PIA TERMS AND CONDITIONS," outlines the comprehensive terms and conditions governing a Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA) between the U.S. Air Force (AFOSR) and a Partnership Intermediary (PI). It details the administrative, programmatic, financial, and legal framework for collaborative activities aimed at technology transfer and transition.

• Administrative Information: Covers background, authority (10 U.S.C. 4124(f) and 15 U.S.C. 3715), definitions, administrative requirements (2 CFR Part 200), order of precedence, and responsibilities of both Government and PI personnel.
• Term and Modifications: Defines the agreement term (60 months with a 6-month option), procedures for modifications, and termination clauses.
• Program Management: Outlines scope, management, base support, access to government installations, use of Common Access Cards (CACs), handling of classified data, and program planning.
• Financial Matters: Details incremental funding (obligated via Collaborative Project Orders - CPOs), payment instructions, program income, financial management standards, audit requirements, record retention, and payment processing via WAWF/PIEE.
• Claims, Disputes, and Appeals: Establishes procedures for resolving disagreements.
• Intellectual Property Rights: Addresses protection of proprietary information, data rights (Government license), inventions, export control, and foreign access to technology.
• Reporting: Specifies requirements for annual program plans, annual reports, quarterly activity reports, monthly status reports, project final reports, financial reporting (SF-425), and subaward/executive compensation reporting.
• Miscellaneous: Includes provisions on procurement systems, closeout procedures, organizational conflict of interest (OCI), System for Award Management (SAM) registration, and prohibitions related to confidentiality agreements and ByteDance applications.
• National Policy: Covers military recruiting, U.S. flag air carriers, non-discrimination, Clean Air/Water Acts, officials not to benefit, Section 889 (telecommunications equipment), and Operations Security (OPSEC).

This document is crucial for potential bidders as it defines the overarching contractual and operational framework for any Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA) with AFOSR. It details the rights, responsibilities, and requirements for the PI, including financial management, reporting obligations, intellectual property handling, and compliance with national policies. Understanding these terms is essential for assessing the feasibility and structure of potential collaborations or bids under such agreements, particularly concerning the Collaborative Project Order (CPO) process for specific projects.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document outlines the terms and conditions for a Collaborative Project Order (CPO) issued under a Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA). It details the administrative, financial, and technical requirements for the recipient (PI) in collaboration with the United States Air Force (USAF) Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL).

• Agreement Structure: Establishes the CPO as a subordinate agreement to a master PIA.
• Parties: Identifies the USAF AFOSR as the Government entity and a TBD Partnership Intermediary (PI).
• Term and Performance: Defines a 12-month base period with four 12-month option years and a potential 6-month extension. Specifies that performance is in accordance with attached Statements of Work (SOW).
• Financials: Outlines total award amounts, Government-funded share, recipient-funded share, and incremental funding procedures. Requires payment through the Wide Area Work Flow (WAWF) application.
• Reporting: Mandates monthly status reports (technical and business), quarterly financial reports (SF-425), and a final project report (SF-298).
• Intellectual Property & Data Rights: Addresses protection of proprietary information, data rights, inventions, export control, and foreign disclosure.
• Security: Details requirements for U.S. citizen access to DoD bases and IT networks, and procedures for handling classified data via DD Form 254.
• Attachments: References key attachments including CPO Statement of Work, DD 254, Price Proposal, and Key Personnel.

This document is crucial for potential bidders as it defines the framework, expectations, and operational requirements for a collaborative research and development project with AFRL. It details the reporting, financial, security, and intellectual property obligations that will govern the agreement. Bidders should pay close attention to the SOW, reporting requirements, and security protocols to assess their capability and suitability for the opportunity.

Amendment / Modification

This document is an addendum to a DD Form 254, specifically addressing Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clauses for Contract Number FA955026RPIA1.

Key points include:

• Public release of SCI is not authorized.
• The contract requires access to SCI, with numerous governing laws, executive orders, and DoD/AF manuals listed for guidance on physical, personnel, information, and information systems security measures.
• SCI will not be released without specific originator approval and a "need-to-know" certification by the SCI Contracting Officer Representative (COR).
• Contractor personnel requiring SCI access will be submitted for coordination and action to HQ AFMC/A2S after SCI COR approval. Investigations (Tier 5) will be processed by DCSA.
• The contract requires an estimated 2-4 SCI positions.
• Access is restricted to individuals providing services under the contract and possessing the necessary security clearance.
• SCI materials furnished remain the property of the DoD department or command that released it and must be returned upon contract completion or cancellation.
• Release of classified foreign intelligence materials to foreign nationals or immigrant aliens is prohibited without advanced written permission.
• Contractor personnel must maintain accountability for all intelligence materials.
• Inquiries regarding classification guidance should be directed to the SCI COR; security management issues to HQ AFMC/A2S.
• All DD Form 254s for subcontracts involving SCI must be forwarded to the SCI COR for approval and then to HQ AFMC/A2S for review.
• Access to SCI is limited to U.S. Government locations identified under Item 8.a.
• HQ AFMC/A2S maintains security cognizance for all SCI requirements; DCSA is relieved of SCI performance oversight.
• Written requests for SCI visit certifications must be submitted through the SCI COR and arrive at HQ AFMC/A2S at least five working days prior to the visit.

This addendum modifies or clarifies clauses related to SCI access, security, personnel requirements, and material handling as typically found in a DD Form 254 and its associated contract.

Bidders must be aware of the stringent SCI access requirements, security protocols, and personnel vetting processes. This will significantly impact staffing plans, security management, and proposal preparation for any personnel requiring SCI access.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document provides a template for bidders to submit resumes for Key Personnel or individuals having a major role in the proposed effort. It outlines the required format and content for these submissions.

• Personal Information: Full Legal Name, Country of Citizenship.

• Assignment Details: Proposed Title/Role, Availability Date, Period of Commitment.

• Security: Background Investigation or Security Clearance(s) Held (Current/Previous).

• Education & Training: Undergraduate, Graduate, Post Doctoral details (Institution, Major, Degree Type, Year).

• Technical Qualifications/Certifications: Special skills, relevant training, certifications (Type, Description, Certifying Activity, Date).

• Professional Experience: Chronological listing of relevant experience, including Client/Customer, Position Title, Brief Duties, and Detailed Description relevant to the proposed assignment.

• Client/Customer References: Three knowledgeable references with contact information and details about the position held at the time of reference.

• Complete one copy of this template for each person proposed.

• Each resume must not exceed 2 pages.

Bidders must use this template to format and provide the required biographical and professional information for their key personnel. Accurate and complete submissions according to this template are crucial for proposal evaluation.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a DD Form 254, which is a Contract Security Classification Specification. It provides the security requirements for a contract, including information on classified performance, handling, and safeguarding of classified information.

• Contract number and contractor information
• Security classification levels required for contract performance
• Information on prime and subcontractors, if applicable
• Specific security guidance and requirements for handling classified information

Bidders must review this form to understand the security requirements associated with the opportunity. This includes determining if they possess the necessary security clearances and capabilities to meet the government's security obligations. Failure to meet these requirements can impact proposal eligibility and contract performance.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a price proposal template provided by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) for the "AFOSR FY26 Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA) for Integrated Programmatic and Technical Support to increase Technology Transition & Transfer and Collaborative Project Orders (CPOs)" (RFP #: FA955026RPIA1). It serves as a guide for applicants to detail their proposed pricing.

• Instructions Sheet: Outlines requirements for completing the template, including the need to link all formulas and calculations, identify subcontractor/collaborator pricing separately, and note that direct facility costs will not be reimbursed. Profit or fee is unallowable.
• Summary Sheet: Provides a high-level overview of Collaborative Project Orders (CPOs), their descriptions, types (FFP), and pricing breakdown across Base Period, Option Periods 1-4, and a 6-month Extension of Services.
• Detailed CPO Sheets (AFOSR CPO, AFCENT CPO, SSC CPO Colorado, SSC CPO Virginia, NRO CPO): These sheets require bidders to break down proposed costs for Labor and Other Direct Costs (ODCs) for each period. Specific columns include company name/role, SOW task(s), labor category, salary, hours, rates, fringe, G&A, and subtotals for ODCs like facilities, travel, equipment, and subscriptions.
• Facility Pricing by Site Sheet: Requires bidders to detail proposed facility pricing by location, including square footage, price per square foot, monthly rent, and yearly costs.

This template is crucial for bidders to accurately format and submit their pricing proposals. It dictates how costs should be presented, including the separation of labor and other direct costs, subcontractor pricing, and facility costs. Adherence to the instructions and format is essential for compliance and evaluation. Bidders must ensure all calculations are traceable and formulas are included, not locked. Note that direct facility costs are not reimbursable and profit/fee is unallowable.

Other / Unclassified

This document is a Collaborative Project Order (CPO) Statement of Objectives (SOO) for U.S. Air Forces Central (AFCENT) operationally focused innovation, experimentation, and futures development activities. It outlines how a Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA) will be used to facilitate collaboration with government, academic, industry, and allied partners. The CPO aims to support AFCENT's ability to identify and assess mission-relevant problems, connect operational directorates with technical experts, support experimentation and validation, and enable early-stage transition insights.

This document defines the framework and scope for potential future work under a Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA) supporting AFCENT's innovation and experimentation efforts. It details the roles of the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) as the managing organization and the Partnership Intermediary (PI). Bidders should note the specific Task Areas (1-8) and Additional Capabilities (A.1-A.6) that may be activated through government-approved Project Plans. These areas cover partnership development, technology transfer, STEM/workforce development, technical expertise, data analytics, program management, outreach, and other directed support. The document emphasizes that the PI provides facilitative, analytic, and coordination support, and does not perform inherently governmental functions or make decisions. It also outlines illustrative levels of effort, engagement activities, and analytics for proposal development purposes, and details security, data handling, and financial management requirements. This SOO helps potential bidders understand the nature of the support required, the operational context, and the contractual framework for innovation and experimentation activities within AFCENT.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a Past Performance Questionnaire (PPQ) provided by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) to gather feedback on a contractor's performance for a Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA). It is used to verify an offeror's ability to perform on proposed efforts by collecting first-hand experience from organizations that have worked with the offeror.

• Recipient Instructions: The completed PPQ should be emailed directly to AFRL.AFOSR.PIA@us.af.mil no later than 10 calendar days after receipt. Do not send it back to the contractor.
• Information Requested from Respondent: Details about the respondent, their association with the offeror, length of work on the contract, contact information, project name, contractor name, contract number, contractor's role, contract type, award details (original and current values, period of performance), and a description of services provided.
• Performance Assessment: Respondents are asked to rate the contractor's performance in areas such as Overall Program Management, Stakeholder & Relationship Management, Technical Quality & Expertise, Subcontractor / Partner Management, and Proactiveness & Problem Resolution using a scale from Unsatisfactory (1) to Exceptional (5).
• General Comment Section: Space for additional remarks on contractor performance.

This questionnaire is a tool used by AFOSR during the evaluation of proposals for a Partnership Intermediary Agreement. Bidders should be aware that their past performance, as assessed through this questionnaire by previous clients, will be a consideration in the proposal evaluation process. Understanding the types of information requested and the performance areas assessed can help bidders prepare for potential feedback requests and understand how their past performance might be evaluated.

Statement of Objectives (SOO)

This Collaborative Project Order (CPO) Statement of Objectives (SOO) outlines the framework for enabling Government-directed technology transfer, early-stage technology transition, and ecosystem engagement activities to support National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) mission priorities. It operates under an Umbrella Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA) and is managed by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR).

The Partnership Intermediary will act as a non-inherently governmental entity to provide facilitation, analysis, coordination, and engagement support. Key activities include:

• Identifying and assessing technology innovation pathways aligned with NRO needs.

• Facilitating engagement with industry, academia, and non-traditional partners.

• Supporting technology transfer awareness and early-stage transition planning.

• Enabling commercialization awareness and dual-use opportunities.

• Providing data-enabled insights and decision support.

• Supporting STEM and workforce development initiatives.

• Facilitating collaboration environments and engagement forums.

• AFOSR is the sole Government authority for direction, approval, prioritization, and acceptance of work.

• NRO participates as a mission partner, providing input on needs and priorities through AFOSR.

• The Partnership Intermediary provides facilitative support and cannot perform inherently governmental functions, make decisions, negotiate agreements, or obligate the Government.

Specific activities will be authorized through AFOSR-approved Project Plans, potentially activating Task Areas such as Partnership Development, Technology Transfer, STEM Development, Technical Expertise, Data Tools, Program Management, Outreach, and other directed support.

Performance will be assessed against outputs, metrics, and outcomes defined in Government-directed Project Plans. Deliverables are execution artifacts and will be Government-owned.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document defines the framework for reporting and deliverables required for the execution of a Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA). It aims to provide transparency for offerors, support program execution and oversight, enable traceability between activities and costs, and ensure program and financial management reporting.

• Reporting Alignment: All reporting and deliverables must align with approved Project Plans and Government-directed activities. Financial reporting should detail actual and projected expenditures, explain variances, and demonstrate support for authorized objectives.
• Deliverables Catalog: A comprehensive list of 10 distinct deliverables (D-1 through D-10) is provided, including:
  • Monthly Program, Financial & Activity Report (MPFAR)
  • Monthly Tech Transition, Tech Transfer & IP Report (MT3-IP)
  • Monthly Impact, Analytics & Success Stories Package (M-IASS)
  • STEM & Workforce Development Activity Summary
  • Inventory Report (Government Purchased & Furnished Property)
  • Security & Attendee Documentation
  • Quarterly PIA Progress Report
  • Program Management Reviews (PMRs)
  • Roadshows, Briefings & Program Presentations
  • T3 One-Pager
• Frequency and Format: Each deliverable specifies its required frequency (e.g., Monthly, Quarterly, Bi-Annual, As Required) and format (e.g., PDF, Report, Briefing Deck, Data Tables).
• Illustrative Matrix: An activation matrix shows common deliverables associated with different PIA focus areas (e.g., Program Execution, Technology Transition, STEM Development).

This attachment is crucial for potential bidders as it clearly outlines the expected reporting and deliverable requirements under the PIA. Understanding these requirements is essential for developing accurate project plans, estimating resources, and demonstrating compliance. The specific deliverables and their frequencies will directly impact the ongoing management and reporting obligations of the selected intermediary.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document outlines the Key Personnel Requirements and Descriptions for the Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA). It specifies which positions are considered essential for successful performance and details their roles and minimum qualifications.

• Key Personnel Definition: Positions essential to performance due to leadership, integration, and external-facing responsibilities. These roles may provide fractional support across multiple Collaborative Project Orders (CPOs) and are not intended as dedicated full-time positions unless justified.
• Required Key Personnel Positions:
  1. Program Director / Principal: Overall leadership, accountability, and primary senior interface with the Government. Requires demonstrated leadership experience managing programs of similar scope and complexity.
  2. Technology Transition & Partnership Integration Lead: Principal intermediary for technology transition, enablement, and partnership integration. Requires demonstrated experience in technology transfer, transition, or establishing partnerships.
  3. Deputy Program Director or Operations Lead (Optional): May be proposed if scope, complexity, or reporting requirements necessitate dedicated operational coordination. Requires demonstrated experience in program management, operations, or contract administration.
• Non-Key Personnel: All other roles (functional leads, project staff, consultants, SMEs) are non-key and can be scaled or substituted as needed within approved constraints.
• Substitution & Continuity: Substitution or removal of Key Personnel requires prior written approval from the Contracting Officer, with proposed replacements demonstrating substantially equivalent or greater qualifications.
• CPO-Specific Staffing: Staffing models should not assume continuous work across option years or CPOs, as all work is authorized and scoped exclusively through Government-approved CPOs.

Bidders must identify and propose individuals for the designated Key Personnel positions, ensuring they meet the minimum qualifications. The proposal must clearly define how these Key Personnel will fulfill their responsibilities and provide leadership for the PIA. Bidders should also understand that non-key personnel are flexible and that staffing should align with specific CPO requirements rather than assumed continuous workload.

Statement of Objectives (SOO)

This Collaborative Project Order (CPO) Statement of Objectives (SOO) aims to facilitate technology transfer, early-stage technology transition, and ecosystem engagement for Space Systems Command (SSC) mission priorities. It outlines how a Partnership Intermediary (PI) will support SSC by identifying, assessing, and connecting research, innovation, technologies, and partners. The PI will act as a non-inherently governmental enabler, providing facilitation, analysis, coordination, and engagement support.

The PI will support SSC activities across multiple locations, focusing on commercialization enablement, partner engagement, and transition awareness. Key activities include:

• Technology transfer: Disseminating information on Department of the Air Force-funded research to external partners.

• Technology transition: Identifying pathways, connecting stakeholders, and raising awareness for commercialization or adoption.

• Commercialization enablement: Highlighting dual-use opportunities and non-Government maturation pathways.

• Ecosystem engagement: Identifying, assessing, and engaging partners across industry, academia, and non-traditional entities.

• Facilitation: Supporting Government-directed cohorts, working groups, and collaborative forums.

• Analytics: Providing descriptive analytics, landscape assessments, and market intelligence.

• AFOSR (Air Force Office of Scientific Research) is the sole Government authority for direction, approval, and oversight.

• SSC acts as a mission partner, identifying needs and providing context, but cannot direct the PI without AFOSR authorization.

• The PI provides facilitative support and cannot perform inherently governmental functions, make decisions, negotiate agreements, or obligate the Government.

The SOO outlines several Task Areas (e.g., Partnership Development, Technology Transition, STEM/Workforce, Technical Expertise, Data Tools, Program Management, Outreach) and Additional Capabilities (e.g., Collaboration Environments) that may be activated by the Government through approved Project Plans.

Performance will be assessed against outputs, metrics, and outcomes defined in AFOSR-approved Project Plans. Deliverables are execution artifacts and will be Government-owned with unlimited use rights.

Other / Unclassified

This document is a Collaborative Project Order (CPO) Statement of Objectives (SOO) issued under a Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA) by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) / Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR). It outlines the framework for a Partnership Intermediary to provide non-inherently governmental facilitation, analytic, and engagement support to AFOSR's basic research (6.1) mission. The CPO aims to support technology transfer and transition by enabling ecosystem access, disseminating knowledge, increasing awareness of research-derived technologies, identifying transition pathways, and connecting research performers with relevant stakeholders.

This document defines the scope of potential services and objectives for a Partnership Intermediary supporting AFOSR. Bidders should note:

• Scope of Work: Activities are categorized into eight Task Areas (e.g., Partnership Development, Technology Transfer, STEM Development, Technical Expertise, Data Tools, Program Management, Outreach, Other T3 Support) and Additional Capabilities. These are facilitative and analytic, not acquisition-focused.
• Roles and Authorities: AFOSR is the sole directing authority. The Partnership Intermediary acts as a facilitator and connector, not a decision-maker.
• Objectives: Focus on advancing technology transfer, enabling early-stage technology transition awareness, identifying partnerships, supporting agreement enablement, improving data-enabled insights, facilitating collaboration environments, and strengthening STEM/workforce pipelines.
• Illustrative Activity Levels: Provides non-binding ranges for proposal development, including labor hours (8,000-14,000 annually), events (2-10 major, 50-250 minor annually), studies (6-30 annually), and partnership actions (10-40 annually).
• Security: May require personnel with security clearances (Secret to TS/SCI) and adherence to strict information security protocols.
• Financial Management: Emphasizes transparency, compliance with 2 CFR 200, and cost traceability.

Statement of Objectives (SOO)

This document establishes the overarching framework for a Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA) between the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), with oversight by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR), and a Partnership Intermediary. The PIA aims to facilitate technology transfer, early-stage technology transition, partnership development, and ecosystem engagement. It serves as a non-inherently governmental mechanism to connect the Air Force with external scientific, academic, and industrial ecosystems.

The PIA supports the Department of the Air Force's research-to-impact continuum by enabling activities such as:

• Partnership development and agreement enablement.
• Technology transfer and early-stage technology transition awareness, market intelligence, and pathway exploration.
• Technology scouting, industry engagement, and ecosystem analysis.
• STEM and workforce development.
• Access to non-inherently governmental technical expertise and analytical assessments.
• Development and use of data tools and analytic platforms.
• Governance support, coordination, and facilitation of convenings and workshops.
• Production of outreach and knowledge-transfer outputs.

All work will be initiated through Government-approved Collaborative Project Orders (CPOs) and associated Project Plans, which will define specific objectives, execution approaches, and emphasis areas.

• AFOSR: Manages the PIA, establishes strategic objectives, approves CPOs, provides direction, and oversees performance.

• Mission Partners (e.g., SSC, Battle Labs): May provide funding or mission needs but cannot provide technical direction to the Partnership Intermediary. All direction must come through AFOSR.

• Partnership Intermediary: Facilitates activities as directed by AFOSR through approved CPOs, maintains separation from inherently governmental functions, and does not perform acquisition or procurement decisions.

• Active CPOs: 3-6 per year.

• Level of Effort per CPO: 8,000–16,000 labor hours (approx. 2–8 FTEs).

• Events: 2-12 major events and 50-250 minor engagements/meetings per CPO per year.

• Analytics/Studies: 5-25 structured studies and 3-12 dashboards/data tools per CPO per year.

• Partnership Instruments: 10-40 facilitated MOUs, CRADAs, etc., per CPO per year.

• SMEs: 1-10 SMEs per CPO per year, for 50-1,000 hours each.

Includes Partnership Development, Technology Transfer & Market Intelligence, STEM/Workforce Development, Technical Expertise & Studies, Data Tools & Platforms, Program Management & Governance Support, Outreach & Communication, and other Government-directed T3-aligned support.

Compliance with DoD/DAF security regulations is required. Personnel may need security clearances (Secret to TS/SCI). All data, tools, and outputs are Government-owned with unlimited use rights. Export control laws apply to foreign access.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This Request for Proposal (RFP) FA955026RPIA1 seeks a Partnership Intermediary (PI) to provide Integrated Programmatic and Technical Support to increase Technology Transition & Transfer and Collaborative Project Orders (CPOs). The goal is to facilitate technology transition from Air Force research to industry and academia, foster partnerships, and support workforce development.

• Partnership development and agreement enablement.

• Technology transfer and early-stage transition awareness, market intelligence.

• Technology scouting and industry/ecosystem analysis.

• STEM and workforce development.

• Access to technical expertise for studies and assessments.

• Development and use of data tools and collaboration platforms.

• Governance support and facilitation of workshops.

• Production of communication and knowledge-transfer outputs.

• Contract Type: Fixed Price PIA.

• Estimated Program Ceiling: $80M for the PIA.

• Periods of Performance: 60 months base plus a 6-month option for the PIA and each CPO.

• Profit/Fee: Unallowable under this PIA.

• Five initial CPOs are anticipated with the PIA award, with potential for additional CPOs.

• Proposal Submission Deadline: 10:00 AM Eastern on April 4, 2026.

• Submission Method: Electronic to AFRL.AFOSR.PIA@us.af.mil.

• Evaluation Factors: Technical/Management (Capability & Program Management), Past Performance, Price Analysis/Financial Management, Proposal Documentation. Best Value Tradeoff (BVTO) process will be used.

• Key Deadlines: Proposal Submission Due Date/Time: April 4, 2026.

• No small business set-aside.

• Eligibility requires the entity to meet the definition of a "Partnership Intermediary (PI)" as defined in 10 U.S.C. § 4124(f)(2) and 15 U.S.C. § 3715(c). This includes government agencies or nonprofit entities owned, chartered, funded, or operated by or on behalf of a state or local government.

• All Applicants must be registered in SAM.gov.

• The document outlines detailed proposal preparation and submission instructions across four volumes: Technical/Management, Price Documentation, Proposal Documentation, and Past Performance.

• Specific facility locations and square footage requirements are detailed for performance sites.

• Security requirements include potential TS/SCI clearance for personnel supporting specific CPOs.

• Attachments include Statements of Objectives (SOOs) for the PIA and each CPO, model terms and conditions, DD254, and proposal templates.

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This Collaborative Project Order (CPO) Statement of Objectives (SOO) aims to facilitate government-directed technology transfer, early-stage technology transition, and ecosystem engagement activities to support Space Systems Command (SSC) mission priorities. The Partnership Intermediary will act as a non-inherently governmental entity to provide facilitation, analysis, coordination, and engagement support.

Activities will support SSC across multiple locations and functional efforts, including commercialization enablement, partner engagement, and transition awareness. The Partnership Intermediary will support SSC's need to connect research, innovation, and operational stakeholders. Specific activities are authorized through AFOSR-approved Project Plans and may include:

• Partnership Development & Agreement Enablement
• Technology Transfer, Transition & Market Intelligence
• STEM, Workforce & Talent Pipeline Development
• Technical Expertise, Studies & SME Access
• Data Tools, Analytic Platforms & Innovation Support
• Program Management, Engagement Support & Event Facilitation
• Outreach, Communication & Knowledge Transfer
• Other Government-Directed, T3-Aligned Facilitative Support

Additional capabilities like collaboration environments and specialized support may also be utilized.

Performance will be assessed solely against outputs, metrics, and outcomes established through Government direction and documented in AFOSR-approved Project Plans and associated performance or reporting frameworks. The Partnership Intermediary must deliver accurate, professional-quality outputs, meet timelines, respond promptly to direction, and comply with all applicable laws and policies.

Activities may support multiple SSC-aligned execution environments, with one anticipated to operate primarily in the Chantilly, Virginia area. The duration and specific locations will be defined by Government-approved Project Plans.

• The Partnership Intermediary must operate as a non-inherently governmental entity and cannot perform inherently governmental functions, make acquisition decisions, negotiate agreements, or obligate the Government.
• All activities are advisory, descriptive, facilitative, and non-binding.
• Security requirements may include access to classified information (NATO, COMSEC, TS, SCI) and require appropriate personnel clearances and NDAs. Compliance with NISP, CUI handling, OPSEC, and system security is mandatory.
• Data handling requires ensuring Government ownership, full access, and reuse rights, with controlled transfer to foreign entities.