NSF X-Labs

NSF X-Labs (Quantum + Scientific Instrumentation)

Funds independent research organizations focused on quantum systems and scientific instrumentation breakthroughs.

NSF X-Labs is a $1.5 billion initiative, announced in May 2026 and led by the NSF Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP), that funds the creation of independent organizations composed of full-time teams of entrepreneurs, technologists, researchers, scientists, and engineers. Unlike standard academic grants, X-Labs awards support new entities specifically designed to pursue technical breakthroughs that traditional university and industry laboratories cannot easily solve. The program translates early-stage concepts and prototypes into commercially viable platforms with broad economic impact.

The 2026 solicitation covers two technical domains: Quantum Systems — specifically Interconnects and Integrated Photonics — and Scientific Instrumentation for Sensing and Imaging. Awards are described as large and multiyear; specific per-award ceilings had not been published in source materials as of May 2026. Applications are submitted through SAM.gov and a dedicated portal at nsfgov.my.site.com/xlabs/s/ — not the standard NSF research.gov system — indicating a contract or other-transaction vehicle rather than a conventional grant mechanism. Informational webinars were scheduled for May and June 2026, with Q&A sessions on June 23 and 30, 2026.

Eligible applicants span for-profit companies, nonprofits, and universities operating in the United States. Because the instrument is contract-based, intellectual property ownership and indirect cost treatment may differ significantly from standard NSF grants. Applicants should review the SAM.gov solicitation and attend webinars before preparing a submission.