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NASA TechLeap Prize

TechLeap Prize: Robotically Manipulated Payload Challenge

Funds teams developing robotics technologies for payload manipulation in space through a NASA prize competition.

OpenNASA Space Technology Mission DirectorateUnited StatesEligible in Indiana

The TechLeap Prize: Robotically Manipulated Payload Challenge is administered by NASA's Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) as part of its TechLeap Prize series — an open competition instrument used to accelerate development of specific space technologies. The TechLeap Prize series operates as a prize competition rather than a grant: participants compete for a cash prize by demonstrating t…

Robotic manipulation of payloads in space environments. The challenge focuses on autonomous or semi-autonomous robotic systems capable of handling, positioning, or transferring payloads relevant to space operations.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.One-off
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.—
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.—
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.—
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Prize
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.—

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Last verified: 22 Jul 2026Source: www.nasa.gov