2026 - 2029 HERD & FFRDC Survey

The National Science Foundation (NSF) issued a Sources Sought notice for market research to identify qualified organizations for the 2026-2029 Higher Education Research and Development Survey and Federally Funded Research and Development Centers R&D Survey. This is not a request for proposal, and no contract will be awarded based on responses. The NSF seeks experienced sources to support the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics (NCSES), encouraging all qualified businesses, including small businesses across all socioeconomic categories, to respond. The anticipated NAICS code is 541611 ($24.5 million size standard). Interested vendors must submit a capability statement by January 12, 2026, by 10:00 AM ET, via email to Derek Bowks at dbowks@nsf.gov. Responses should be concise, not exceeding five pages, in 12-point Times Roman font, and should not include cost information or generic marketing materials. The statement must include corporate information (name, address, representative, socioeconomic status, UEI, applicable contract vehicles) and demonstrate capability in national-level data collection, dissemination for the federal government, internet-based data collection instrument development, experienced survey staff, financial/R&D accounting in higher education, and state-of-the-art database practices with a focus on confidentiality and security.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) seeks a contractor to conduct the Higher Education Research & Development (HERD) Survey and the Federally Funded R&D Centers (FFRDC) R&D Survey for fiscal years 2026-2029. This acquisition aims to collect vital data on R&D expenditures and activities at universities, colleges, and FFRDCs, fulfilling the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics' (NCSES) mandate to track U.S. science and engineering resources. The contractor will manage all survey cycles, including population review, instrument development, data collection, processing, editing, imputation, and dissemination. Key objectives include maintaining databases, producing publications, and ensuring data security and confidentiality. The project requires a robust management plan, adherence to federal standards, and ongoing communication with NCSES. The period of performance is from August 1, 2026, through April 30, 2031, with options for extensions.