NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) Phase I

The NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) Phase I solicitation invites U.S. organizations (and eligible foreign partners on a no‑exchange‑of‑funds basis) to submit proposals for visionary space‑technology concepts. Phase I awards fund a nine‑month feasibility study, with up to 16 awards available and a maximum ceiling of $225,000 per award. Proposals are submitted electronically via NSPIRES, must be accompanied by a UEI, CAGE code, and SAM registration, and are due by 28 Oct 2026. A virtual informational forum will be held on 7 Oct 2026; questions must be submitted by 6 Oct 2026. The program is funded under the Space Technology Research, Development, Demonstration, and Infusion (SpaceTech‑REDDI‑2026) NRA. • Open to all categories of U.S. entities; foreign entities may partner without funding. • Phase I effort is approximately nine months, focused on concept feasibility. • Maximum award per project: $225,000; up to 16 awards expected. • Submission via NSPIRES; requires UEI, CAGE, SAM registration. • Key dates: 28 Sep 2026 (open), 7 Oct 2026 (virtual forum), 6 Oct 2026 (questions due), 28 Oct 2026 (proposal deadline). • Primary contact: Benjamin J. Goodman, Senior Scientist (hq‑[email protected]).