Description
The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is issuing an RFP for a Vessel Design Challenge aimed at improving fuel efficiency and reducing underwater radiated noise (URN) on future U.S.‑flagged commercial vessels. Teams will conduct integrated design‑stage studies using fluid‑dynamic modeling (and optional other modeling techniques) to demonstrate technology combinations that achieve at least a 30 % fuel‑efficiency gain and meet specified URN limits. Funding will be provided through cooperative agreements, with individual awards ranging from $150 k to $450 k and a total ceiling of $1.25 M. Projects must be completed within 12‑18 months and culminate in a detailed design package, cost/ROI analysis, and a publicly available final report.
• Open to U.S. domestic entities (companies, not individuals); U.S.‑registered firms are eligible even with foreign parent ownership.
• No limitation on vessel type, but designs should be commercially relevant (exclude small recreational or fisheries vessels).
• Required team composition: naval architects, marine engineers, shipyards, owners/operators, technology providers, etc.
• Deliverables: preliminary vessel design, hydrodynamic and propulsion analysis, URN modeling, stability/load analysis, cost breakdown, ROI timeline, and final public report.
• Proposals limited to 20 pages; must be submitted electronically within 120 days of the notice posting.
• Evaluation criteria include technical approach, team capability, schedule, and budget justification.
• Preference given to teams led by U.S. companies with U.S. headquarters and U.S. flag.