NASA has unveiled two new resources aimed at enhancing engagement with businesses, particularly small and minority-owned enterprises, seeking to contribute to the agency’s diverse missions. These initiatives are designed to improve access and participation for companies of all sizes in NASA’s procurement processes, addressing existing barriers faced by smaller and less experienced firms.
The agency recognizes the importance of transparency in its
acquisition procedures but acknowledges that obstacles remain for certain businesses. Recent federal policies have also placed increased emphasis on NASA’s objectives regarding small and minority business involvement.
NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy emphasized the agency’s commitment to fostering collaboration with small and disadvantaged businesses. She stated that by implementing innovative practices and refining procurement processes, NASA aims to drive forward its key mission objectives while stimulating industry-wide innovation and inclusivity.
To evaluate best practices and identify major barriers, Melroy established a cross-functional team involving the Offices of Procurement and Small Business Programs. This initiative resulted in the development of a communication plan for small and minority business enterprises, complementing NASA’s annual vendor communication strategy.
Karla Smith Jackson, assistant administrator for NASA’s Office of Procurement, highlighted the agency’s recognition that a diverse and broad supply chain is crucial for mission success. The updated Vendor Communication and new Small and Minority Business Enterprise Communication plans represent NASA’s ongoing efforts to create an inclusive acquisition environment.
The Small and Minority Business Enterprise Communication Plan outlines strategies to enhance outreach efforts and increase spending with these businesses. It aims to reduce obstacles to participation in NASA’s missions and more actively engage companies throughout the procurement process.
One key initiative outlined in these plans is the NASA Acquisition Innovation Launchpad (NAIL), which encourages direct conversations with small and minority-owned businesses. This platform aims to improve participation, drive innovation, identify and remove barriers, and facilitate the sharing of best practices across the agency.
Dwight Deneal, assistant administrator for NASA’s Office of Small Business Programs, emphasized that the communication plan is not just about outreach but about building lasting partnerships that drive innovation and inclusion across NASA’s missions.
The Vendor Communication Plan provides detailed information on NASA’s engagement with all businesses before, during, and after contract awards. This includes hosting webinars, providing email support, and reviewing final performance and financial reports. The plan also addresses how NASA promotes diversity throughout the contracting process, featuring a dedicated equity action plan and increased subcontracting opportunities.
NASA is actively expanding its reach to new entrants and businesses that have not traditionally worked with the agency. There is a strong commitment to increasing small business prime and subcontract awards, with a focus on innovative barrier-reducing procurement practices and transparent contracting methods.
These initiatives reflect NASA’s broader mission to explore the unknown, innovate for humanity’s benefit, and inspire through discovery. By improving its acquisition process and fostering a more inclusive business environment, NASA aims to leverage a wider range of talent and creativity in its groundbreaking work in space exploration and related fields.
The agency’s efforts to enhance communication and collaboration with diverse businesses align with its core values of innovation, inclusivity, and excellence. As NASA continues to push the boundaries of science and technology, these new resources and strategies are expected to play a crucial role in ensuring that a broad spectrum of businesses can contribute to and benefit from the agency’s ambitious goals in space exploration and scientific discovery.