The National Science Foundation (NSF) is on the verge of releasing the final Request for Proposal (RFP) for its Antarctic Science and Engineering Support Contract (ASESC), a 20-year IDIQ contract with an estimated ceiling value of $8 billion. The ASESC will drive groundbreaking science and technology in Antarctica, supporting NSF’s United States Antarctic Program (USAP) in a complex and interdisciplinary research environment.
Under this contract, NSF will collaborate with private industry and government agencies, including NASA, NOAA, and the Department of Energy, to facilitate world-class scientific research. The ASESC is not just logistics support—it’s a partnership to enable vital studies in glaciology, astrophysics, biology, and more. Contractors will play a crucial role in ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective operations for science missions across the Antarctic.
Contract Overview
- Estimated Contract Ceiling: $8 billion
- Contract Type: IDIQ with multiple contract structures (Firm Fixed Price, Cost Reimbursement, Cost Plus Fixed Fee, and more)
- Duration: 20 year base
- NAICS Code(s): 561210: Facilities Support Services
- Size Standard: $47.0 million annual receipts
- Final RFP: Initially Expected Oct. 24
Scope of Work
NSF requires a highly specialized team to support and advance polar research operations. This contract will cover critical infrastructure, logistics, and engineering services to maintain and expand Antarctic facilities, supporting NSF’s mission in one of the harshest environments on Earth. Key areas include facilities maintenance, logistical support, and technical engineering in extreme conditions. Requirements include: laboratory services; science support; IT and satellite communications; facilities and construction management; transportation and supply chain management; communication and web services; medical services and occupational safety; tourism and hospitality; vessel operations.
Why You Should Start Preparing Now
NSF released a draft RFP over the summer, giving interested bidders information to start building their proposal. With a complex set of requirements, extensive proposal stages, and potential for long-term partnerships with NSF, contractors must be ready to respond at a moment’s notice.
How OST Global Solutions Can Help
OST Global Solutions is ready to support your bid from start to finish. Our services include:
- Opportunity Qualification: We help you decide if this contract aligns with your capabilities, experience, and long-term goals.
- Capture Strategy Development: We’ll help develop and refine your win strategy, position you competitively, and emphasize your strengths in this complex domain.
- Teaming Support: We help identify and partner with firms that can enhance your team’s technical expertise and operational strengths.
- Proposal Writing and Management: We’ll craft a compliant and compelling proposal, showcasing your capabilities and readiness for this unique environment.
NSF’s Antarctic Science and Engineering Support contract is a significant, long-term opportunity. If you’re ready to bid – or wondering if you should – OST Global Solutions can provide the expertise and resources to ensure your success. Contact us today to prepare your team for this pivotal proposal.
Contact us to discuss your bids, so we can help you develop a winning proposal.
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