Program Update Status

The NASA Mentor-Protégé Program is value-focused and is aligned with NASA’s current and future strategy and mission. The Center-focused Program enhances the technical and business capabilities of eligible Protégés to perform as prime contractors, subcontractors and suppliers under contracts. Long-term business relationships are formed, while providing clear guidance through documented processes and procedures.

Mentor applications may be submitted at any time to the Office of Small Business Programs at NASA Headquarters, and Mentor-Protégé agreements are accepted at NASA Centers on January 15th, May 15th, and September 15th.

The updated NASA FAR Supplement 1819.72 has been expanded to include Award Fee Incentives and new eligible Small Business categories for Protégés. A Protégé may be one of the following:

• Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB)
• Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB)
• Historically Black College or University (HBCU)
• Minority Institution (MI)
• Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB)
• Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)
• Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) Concern
• A company participating in the AbilityOne Program
• The introduction of an Award Fee Pilot Program, where Mentors are eligible for the receipt of an award fee for providing developmental assistance to NASA SBIR Phase II companies.