Request for Information (RFI): Identifying the Next Generation of NSF X-Labs Topics

The National Science Foundation’s TIP Directorate is seeking broad input from academia, industry, labs, startups, venture capital, nonprofits, government, and the public on future platform‑technology bottlenecks that could become NSF X‑Labs topics. Respondents will describe high‑impact scientific or technological opportunities, the critical bottlenecks that impede progress, potential partnerships, and the conditions under which an independent, full‑time X‑Labs team could accelerate breakthroughs. The RFI is purely informational; no funding or award will result from a response. Submissions are limited to 1,300 characters per question and must be entered via an online Airtable form by the deadline of 30 Oct 2026. • Open to any individual or organization with a substantive view on emerging platform‑technology challenges. • Focus on multi‑year, interdisciplinary problems that require coordinated, milestone‑driven research beyond traditional grant mechanisms. • Responses will be used to shape future NSF X‑Labs topic announcements and may inform “Visioneering” workshops. • No cost to respondents; no payment or contract will be issued for this RFI. • Contact for questions: [email protected].