USAF Fiscal Year 2025 Mentor Protege Program Open Call-ASK ME ANYTHING
Type: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEFA7014 AIR FORCE DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON PKANDREWS AFB, MD, 20762-6604, USA
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of the Air Force is inviting proposals for its Fiscal Year 2025 Mentor-Protégé Program (MPP), aimed at enhancing small business participation in defense contracts through a structured two-step application process. Eligible Mentor Firms, including universities, are expected to assist Protégé Firms in business and technical development, with a focus on engineering and technical support, requiring at least 50% of assistance to be in these areas. This initiative is crucial for fostering small business growth within the defense sector, aligning with Department of Defense strategic goals to address capability gaps. Interested vendors can participate in an online "Ask Me Anything" session on December 18, 2024, and must submit their application packages by January 31, 2025. For further inquiries, contact Moira X. McLaughlin at Moira.McLaughlin.1@us.af.mil or call 703-304-8961.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The Department of the Air Force's Mentor-Protégé Program (MPP) outlines a framework for submitting tentative agreement packages between Mentor and Protégé firms. The template includes sections for soliciting agreement details, such as the type of assistance, cost estimates, and timelines, ensuring a structured approach to development over a maximum of 36 months. Key requirements include providing a detailed cost breakdown by category, eligibility statements for Mentor and Protégé firms, and summaries of their capabilities and past performances within the DoD. Additionally, it mandates a clear description of developmental assistance, emphasizing that at least 50% must be Engineering and Technical Assistance, while also detailing the role of any authorized subcontractors. The structure requires firms to outline their relationship and past interactions, assess their needs comprehensively, and demonstrate how the proposed agreement aligns with DoD objectives. Furthermore, the program encourages workshops for small businesses to foster engagement in the Defense Industrial Base. Overall, the MPP template serves as a comprehensive guideline for small businesses to enhance their competencies and collaboration with larger firms to meet federal contracting requirements.
    The Department of Defense (DoD) Mentor-Protégé Program's Pilot Protégé Initiative (PPI) was established to support protégé firms in advancing engineering, software development, or manufacturing customization projects that aid the War Fighter. Effective as of July 1, 2023, protégé firms can propose projects with a budget cap of 25% of their annual reimbursements under a Mentor-Protégé Agreement (MPA). Eligibility requires protégé firms to meet existing Mentor-Protégé Program criteria and demonstrate development capabilities that align with DoD needs. The PPI allows reimbursement for developmental activities linked to DoD systems, with careful monitoring of costs (including limited management fees). Applications necessitate proposals with a detailed outline of development activities and estimated costs, evaluated by Program Managers for approval. Reporting requirements include periodic updates on developmental progress and expenses. Notably, mentors bear no liability for their protégés’ use of funds, ensuring the protégé’s use of funding does not impact the mentor’s risk rating. This initiative aims to foster collaboration, enhance protégé capabilities, and support technological advancement within the DoD framework.
    The document outlines submission guidelines for the DAF MPP Proposed Agreement Package in response to government RFPs. The structure includes a checklist that delineates requirements for various parts of the submission, with specific page limits and formatting stipulations. The Tentative Agreement Package must not exceed 55 pages and adhere to DoD file size constraints. Submissions are categorized into several parts, each detailing unique requirements: 1. An Executive Overview (1 page). 2. Specific sections for proposed agreement information, needs assessments, and developmental assistance approaches, among others, requiring predefined formats and software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). 3. Letters of endorsement from senior executives of mentor and protégé firms (1 page each in PDF). 4. Additional detailed elements like the DAF MPP executive quad chart and various templates provided for proper format adherence. The purpose of the checklist is to ensure compliance and facilitate the evaluation process for federal and state contracts or grants. The precision in format, submission size, and required file types underscores the government's emphasis on structured and clear proposals to streamline processing and assessment.
    This document summarizes an assessment of a protégé's general business, financial, and technical capabilities for government contracting. Evaluations reveal strengths and weaknesses across several areas, with a color-coded rating system used to indicate the levels of competence: yellow signifies minimal to acceptable performance; red denotes areas needing significant improvement; green indicates good performance; and purple highlights training needs. Key findings indicate that the protégé has established processes but requires enhancement in contract management, proposal development, and government accounting. Training in federal grant application processes and effective business development within government contexts is also necessary. Technical capabilities, particularly in agile software and biotechnology, show proficiency but require further development to meet government standards. Issues related to hazardous materials handling and certifications, such as ISO or CMMI, pinpoint gaps that need addressing. Overall, the document reveals a need for support in navigating government requirements, emphasizing the importance of building expertise in areas critical to successfully securing and managing government contracts and projects while ensuring compliance and effective communication with federal agencies.
    The document outlines a developmental assistance approach for engineering, technical, and business management activities as part of federal government RFPs. It is structured into sections that describe various tasks and their descriptions, focusing on performance and personnel assignment. Key activities include Technology Transfer Assistance, General Business Management Assistance, and Program Management Assistance, each comprising several specific tasks aimed at enhancing the capabilities of designated protégé organizations. Each task is detailed with objectives such as providing classroom training, on-the-job experiences, and opportunities for subcontracting. The personnel involved are categorized as protégé, mentor, or authorized subcontractor. This structured approach signifies a commitment to fostering development and collaboration among entities involved in government contracting. Overall, the document serves as a guideline for organizations bidding on federal grants and RFPs, emphasizing the importance of skill acquisition and management support to ensure successful project outcomes while aligning with federal objectives. Its extensive breakdown of tasks promotes clarity and accountability in the execution of developmental assistance programs.
    This document, titled "Attachment 4 - Key Personnel Addendum," is part of a government Request for Proposals (RFP) and outlines the key personnel involved in a project, categorizing them as Mentor, Protégé, Authorized Subcontractor, and Other Contractors. Each section lists individuals' names, roles, years of experience, educational backgrounds, contact details, and highlights of their qualifications. It appears that the purpose of the addendum is to provide a comprehensive overview of the personnel's expertise and responsibilities within the project, enhancing the proposal's credibility by demonstrating the qualifications of those involved. The structured format aims to present clear and relevant information to federal and state grant officials, showcasing the collective experience of mentors and subcontractors necessary for project success. Overall, this document serves as a critical component in presenting a well-rounded and capable team to fulfill government project requirements.
    The document outlines a proposed collaboration between a Mentor and Protégé within the Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of the Air Force (DAF) structures, particularly focusing on engineering and technical assistance tasks as well as general business development support. It specifies the need for identifying critical tasks in plain language and provides a cost structure for various years, including estimated costs and subcontractor utilization percentages. The proposal emphasizes the developmental assistance objectives aligning with DoD/DAF needs and potential benefits for the Warfighter, Mentor, and Protégé. It highlights anticipated opportunities for the Protégé to collaborate with the Mentor and other entities involved, along with relevant programs or weapon systems. Moreover, it mandates the inclusion of Mentor and Protégé locations and authorized subcontractors’ details. This document serves as a foundational component of federal RFPs and grants, showcasing the government’s commitment to fostering partnerships that enhance capability building and support for defense initiatives.
    The Department of Defense (DoD) Protégé Pilot Initiative aims to support Protégés involved in DoD reimbursable agreements by enabling them to request funding for projects that enhance engineering, software development, or manufacturing tailored to meet the needs of the War Fighter. Funds can cover up to 25% of the annual budget of the agreement, with an additional 3% allocated for administrative costs by the mentor. The mentor must review submissions for accuracy but bears no liability for funding use or failure to meet project milestones. Monthly status reports are required from the protégé to the mentor detailing expenditures and progress. Additionally, the pilot encourages collaboration focused on technology related to defense without obligating the transfer of developed technology to the U.S. government. Applications require detailed project descriptions, milestones, key personnel, and financial estimates. The program promotes small business engagement in defense initiatives, leveraging federal grants and RFPs to foster growth in the industrial base while ensuring accountability and performance evaluation by the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA).
    The Protégé Pilot Initiative (PPI) Cost Spreadsheet Instructions provide guidance for offerors submitting proposals to the Department of Defense Office of Small Business Programs. The document outlines requirements for detailing cost estimates, including quotes from suppliers, documentation methods, and the required level of detail for subcontractor proposals. The cost spreadsheet must be completed in Microsoft Excel, including various tabs for program summaries, labor, equipment, materials, and other direct costs. Key sections specify how to enter data regarding equipment or facility upgrades, labor costs, including specific categories, and schedules for installation and testing. Additional notes and comments are encouraged to clarify project specifics. The PPI aims to facilitate an organized and transparent submission process, ultimately enhancing the evaluation of proposed costs and price elements. By establishing a clear framework, it ensures that all required financial details are presented systematically, supporting compliant and efficient project funding applications in line with government funding protocols.
    The Department of the Air Force's Mentor Protégé Program provides a framework for Engineering and Technical Assistance through collaborative agreements aimed at enhancing capabilities in various fields. The document outlines examples of assistance categories including Technical Program Management, Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Quality Management, Operational Excellence, Artificial Intelligence, Data Management, and Systems Engineering, among others. Each category details methods and processes, such as Agile Project Management for IT, Total Quality Management for quality assurance, and strategies for Product Lifecycle Management. The purpose of this document aligns with government RFPs and grants, highlighting how mentoring relationships can facilitate technology transfer and workforce development, while utilizing best practices and certifications in respective areas. This approach emphasizes continuous improvement and operational efficiency, assisting small businesses in enhancing their offerings to meet federal and defense requirements. The document serves as a guideline for mentors and protégés to establish a collaborative environment that promotes skill development and innovation within the defense sector.
    The document outlines examples of General Business Development Assistance that can be offered under the Department of the Air Force's Mentor Protégé Program. It categorizes assistance into various areas such as organizational management, business development, financial management, and contract management, among others. Each category includes specific tasks and skills, such as strategic planning, market research, financial forecasting, and compliance with federal regulations. The intent of the document is to assist potential mentors and protégés by providing a structured framework for the types of support available. It emphasizes that the actual assistance will depend on individual Mentor agreements, with no implied endorsement. Key concepts include change management processes, effective communication strategies, and principles of enterprise risk management, indicating a comprehensive approach to fostering small business development within federal contracting environments. This resource is especially relevant for those involved in government RFPs and grants, as it underscores the foundational concepts necessary for successful business interactions within federal contracts. Overall, the document serves as a detailed guide promoting strategic growth and operational proficiency for businesses partnering under this program.
    The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is inviting proposals for its Fiscal Year 2025 Mentor-Protégé Program (MPP) to enhance small business participation in defense contracts through a two-step application process. Eligible Mentor Firms (including universities) will assist Protégé Firms with business and technical development to improve their capabilities as subcontractors. Proposals should include a comprehensive agreement package with details on expected outcomes and developmental assistance plans, adhering to required formats and documentation limits. The MPP aims to foster small business growth within the defense sector, aligning initiatives with DoD strategic goals, therefore addressing critical capability gaps. The MPP encourages partnerships that may yield up to 25% reimbursement for eligible Protégé activities. The program emphasizes engineering and technical support, requiring at least 50% of assistance to be in these areas. Selected proposals will undergo a review process that evaluates technical aspects, cost estimates, and alignment with agency goals, with successful candidates invited to provide formal technical and cost proposals. The DAF MPP represents a strategic effort to bolster small businesses in the defense industry, ultimately enhancing innovation and competition.
    Lifecycle
    Similar Opportunities
    USAF Fiscal Year 2025 Mentor Protege Program Open Call
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of the Air Force is inviting firms to participate in the Fiscal Year 2025 Mentor-Protégé Program (MPP) Open Call, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of small businesses to perform under Department of Defense contracts. This initiative seeks to establish partnerships between Mentor Firms and Protégé Firms, focusing on providing developmental assistance in areas such as engineering, technical support, and business management to foster growth and competitiveness in the defense sector. Interested parties must submit Tentative Agreement Packages by January 31, 2025, with the potential for funding requests up to $500,000 annually for eligible projects, and can direct inquiries to Moira X. McLaughlin at Moira.McLaughlin.1@us.af.mil or Kyle Mead at kyle.mead@us.af.mil for further details.
    Mentor Protégé Program Broad Agency Announcement
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DEPT OF DEFENSE) under the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) has issued a Combined Synopsis/Solicitation notice for the Mentor Protégé Program Broad Agency Announcement. This program aims to solicit eligible mentor and protégé firms for participation in the Department of Defense (DoD) Mentor Protégé Program. The program is in accordance with Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) 219.71 and DFARS Appendix I. The program was made permanent under the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This is a Two-Step Open BAA, with Step-One involving the submission of white papers. Selected offerors will proceed to Step-Two, which requires the submission of a formal proposal. It is important to note that formal proposals are not being accepted at this time. Offerors should wait for a request from the MDA Contracting Office before submitting a formal proposal. For full details on this announcement, please refer to the attached document.
    Mentor Protege Program (MPP) Broad Agency Announcement (BAA)
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is soliciting eligible mentor and protégé firms for participation in the Mentor Protégé Program (MPP) through a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA). This initiative aims to enhance the capabilities of small businesses by pairing them with experienced mentor firms, in accordance with the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) guidelines. The BAA will remain open for twelve months, allowing for the submission of white papers at any time, with selected offerors invited to submit formal proposals based on the availability of program funds. Interested parties can reach out to Cornelia Ruffin at cornelia.f.ruffin.civ@mail.mil or John Anderson at john.e.anderson378.civ@mail.mil for further information.
    The DHS Mentor-Protégé Program Relaunches
    Homeland Security, Department Of
    The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has relaunched its Mentor-Protégé Program (MPP) to enhance support for small businesses, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs). The program aims to encourage large business prime contractors to provide developmental assistance to eligible protégés, fostering a diverse environment that promotes collaboration and strengthens subcontracting opportunities. Interested parties can find application details and further information on the DHS MPP website, and for inquiries, they may contact Sharon Davis or Jenista Tobias at dhsmpp@hq.dhs.gov.
    Headquarters Air Force (HAF) Support Services to the Secretary of the Air Force Office of Business Transformation (SAF/MG)
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense is seeking small businesses to provide support services to the Secretary of the Air Force Office of Business Transformation (SAF/MG) at the Pentagon. The objective is to identify capable contractors who can recruit and retain professional services personnel to support a wide range of administrative and management consulting services. This initiative is crucial for ensuring effective support to senior personnel within the Air Force and Space Force, with the intent to establish a multiple award indefinite delivery vehicle (IDV) for streamlined acquisition. Interested parties must submit their capability statements by 3:00 PM EST on February 7, 2025, to the primary contact, Tyler Bender, at tyler.bender.2@us.af.mil, or the secondary contact, Sheryl King, at sheryl.king@us.af.mil.
    DoD STTR 25.A Broad Agency Announcement
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Naval Air Warfare Center, is inviting proposals for the DoD STTR 25.A Broad Agency Announcement, aimed at stimulating technological innovation through small business participation in defense-related research and development. The program seeks small business concerns (SBCs) capable of conducting R&D and commercializing results in various defense-related topics, with a focus on enhancing participation from minority and disadvantaged individuals. Key deadlines include the opening of topics on January 8, 2025, and the proposal submission deadline on February 5, 2025, with additional details available on the DSIP website. Interested parties can contact Joel Blaine Ashworth at joel.b.ashworth.civ@us.navy.mil or Tara Randolph at tara.j.randolph.civ@us.navy.mil for further inquiries.
    CCAF Advisor BPA
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, is seeking proposals for a Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) Advisor through a Total Small Business Set-Aside contract. The contractor will provide non-personal services, including advisement and customer support for military personnel and their families at Whiteman Air Force Base, with responsibilities such as assisting with tuition information, processing documentation, and promoting CCAF programs. This initiative is crucial for enhancing educational support for military members, ensuring they receive the necessary guidance to pursue their academic goals. Interested vendors must submit their quotes by January 22, 2025, and can contact Mitchell Lewter at mitchell.lewter@us.af.mil or Amanda Fragoso at amanda.fragoso@us.af.mil for further details.
    DoD SBIR 25.1 Broad Agency Announcement
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Naval Air Warfare Center, is inviting proposals for the DoD SBIR 25.1 Broad Agency Announcement, aimed at stimulating technological innovation and enhancing the role of small businesses in meeting DoD research and development needs. The program encourages small business concerns (SBCs) to conduct research and development in various defense-related topics, with a focus on increasing the commercial application of the results. Key deadlines include the opening of topics on January 8, 2025, and the proposal submission deadline on February 5, 2025, with additional details available on the DSIP website. Interested parties can contact Joel Blaine Ashworth at joel.b.ashworth.civ@us.navy.mil or Tara Randolph at tara.j.randolph.civ@us.navy.mil for further information.
    Advanced Propulsion Development (APD) IDIQ Sources Sought
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the U.S. Air Force's Propulsion Directorate, is seeking information from potential contractors through a Sources Sought Notice for the Advanced Propulsion Development (APD) Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract. Interested vendors are invited to submit capability statements that demonstrate their ability to meet the program objectives across thirteen propulsion-related technology focus areas, which include advanced propulsion technologies and high-temperature solutions. This initiative aims to identify qualified vendors, including small and disadvantaged businesses, to support future propulsion technology development efforts, thereby enhancing the Air Force's capabilities in this critical area. Responses must be submitted by 3:00 PM (ET) on February 21, 2025, via the DoD SAFE platform, and inquiries can be directed to Tanner Alley or Benjamin Fink at the provided email addresses.
    Request For Proposals: Air Force Modeling and Simulation Support Services (AFMS3) 3.0
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force District of Washington, is soliciting proposals for the Air Force Modeling and Simulation Support Services (AFMS3) 3.0 contract, aimed at enhancing the Department of the Air Force's modeling and simulation capabilities. The procurement seeks comprehensive program management, technical support, cybersecurity measures, and M&S innovation, with a focus on delivering operational and logistical expertise both domestically and internationally. This initiative is critical for maintaining advanced M&S systems that support national defense objectives, with a contract value ranging from $5 million to $972 million. Interested contractors must submit their proposals by February 14, 2025, and can direct inquiries to Capt Richard Snyder at afdw.pk.afms330@us.af.mil.