NIAC PHASES

The NIAC program supports visionary research ideas through multiple progressive phases of study.

Phase I studies are efforts up to 9 months to explore the overall viability and advance the Technology Readiness Level (TRL). Eligible recipients of Phase I awards can propose for a follow-on Phase II study.

Phase II develops concepts for up to two years. Researchers must prepare a roadmap for further development, but are not expected to fully advance the technologies to a level required for NASA or commercial transition.

Phase III continues the exploration and development for another two years. The final phase is designed to strategically transition NIAC concepts with the highest potential impact for NASA, other government agencies or commercial partners.

For complete information, guidelines and announcements regarding NIAC solicitations, visit the NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES) website:

http://nspires.nasaprs.com/

CURRENT & UPCOMING SOLICITATIONS ​​
 

• 2024 Phase I Solicitation
  Release: June 2023
  Selections Announced: January 2024 (planned)
   
• 2024 Phase II Solicitation (planned)
  Release: Mid-November 2023
  Selections Announced: Late March 2024
   
• 2024 Phase III Solicitation (planned)
  Release: Early February 2024
  Selections Announced: Mid-June 2024

FUNDING & DATES

Phase I (FY23)

• $175,000 for a nine-month study
• 12 to 18 awards per year (planned)
• Release: Early June 2022
  Step A Proposals Due: Early July 2022
  Invitations Issued: Early August 2022
  Step B Proposals Due: Early September 2022
  Selections Announced: Early January 2023

Phase II (FY23)

• $600,000 for a two-year study
• Six to eight awards per year (planned)
• Release: Early October 2022
  Notice of Intent Due: Mid-October 2022
  Proposals Due: Mid-January 2023
  Selections Announced: Late March 2023
   

Phase III (FY23)

• $2 million for a two-year study
• One award per year (planned)
• Release: Early February 2023
  Mandatory Preliminary Proposals Due: Early March 2023
  Invitations to Submit a Full Proposal: Late March 2023
  Proposals Due: Mid-May 2023

GET STARTED

1. Think up an innovative concept that will change the way NASA does business; explain why NASA needs your concept.
2. Watch for the release of NIAC solicitations on NSPIRES.
3. Pay extra attention to the proposal preparation instructions.
4. Put your concept into a specific aerospace architecture, mission or system.
5. Contact hq-niac@mail.nasa.gov with additional questions.