# SAM #NSF-Topic3-FY26-XLabsPhysicalAI

NSF X-Labs Initiative – AI for Physical Systems Solicitation

**Buyer:** NSF Tip Directorate
**Posted:** September 16, 2026
**Respond By:** January 07, 2027
**Identifier:** NSF-Topic3-FY26-XLabsPhysicalAI
**NAICS:** 541380, 541715, 541713, 541330

The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP), is soliciting proposals for the NSF X-Labs Initiative focused on AI for Physical Systems.
- Government Buyer:
  - U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF)
  - Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP)
- Scope of Opportunity:
  - Seeking innovative, early stage platform technologies advancing intelligent, adaptive, and scalable AI systems interfacing with the physical world
  - Target areas include robotics, embodied systems, human-robot interfaces, advanced sensing, and cyber physical systems
- Award Structure:
  - Phase 0: 9-12 months, up to $1.5M, milestone-based funding for concept development
  - Phase 1: 24-36 months, up to $50M/year, milestone-based funding for full team execution and scaling
  - Potential for Phase 2 renewal based on performance
- Unique Requirements:
  - Teams must demonstrate operational autonomy and independence
  - Senior/key personnel must be dedicated full-time by Phase 1
  - Emphasis on transformative platform technologies with high-impact scientific and technological breakthroughs
- No specific OEMs, vendors, products, part numbers, or purchase quantities are mentioned
- Solicitation is for Other Transaction (OT) awards under 42 U.S.C. § 19116

### Description

<p>The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP), is soliciting Written Proposals under the NSF X-Labs Initiative for the AI for Physical Systems Topic. NSF seeks innovative, early stage platform technologies that advance intelligent, adaptive, and scalable AI systems operating in or interfacing with the physical world, including robotics, embodied systems, human robot interfaces, advanced sensing, and cyber physical systems. NSF anticipates making one or more Other Transaction (OT) awards under 42 U.S.C. &sect; 19116.</p>

[View original listing](https://sam.gov/opp/2f43e8f885e64afa84b831f1357824f0/view)