Evaluation of the IRIS Education and Outreach Program

Responses to questions submitted to bids@iris.edu

Question

I have just been made aware of the invitation for proposals for the above--mentioned project, and am interested in possibly submitting same. If I read your request properly, I should anticipate a work-load equaling approximately 2.5 full months (0.5 FTE for 5 months). Is that accurate? Before drafting and submitting a proposal, however, I need to know when you anticipate that this work would begin and end. Also, I need to know approximately how much travel to the DC area I need to anticipate. Please send answers to these questions as soon as possible so that I can determine whether or not to submit.

Answer

Our intent was to suggest a workload of up to 0.5 FTE (ie 6 months of staff time) to be conducted over a 4 to 5 month period. Thus we envision a group might work on the project, but that is not a requirement as the proposed budget can be for less than 0.5 FTE. We anticipate the work beginning no later than July 1 and being completed by November, 2008. As stated in the RFP, the minimum number of trips to DC is 4. However an additional 1-3 trips would be reasonable.

Question

Can proposals be submitted from a foreign country?

Answer

Proposals are allowed from foreign countries, however the terms and conditions that come with our National Science Foundation funding are such that the selection of a foreign firm would impose significant additional requirements on IRIS.

Question

Are there any eligibility requirements for proposers? Can small businesses apply as well as public agencies?

Answer

There are no specific eligibility requirements beyond what is listed in the RFP. Small businesses are welcome to apply.