SBIR Phase III Contracting Guide
A comprehensive reference guide for applying SBIR Phase III authority in accordance with statutory and regulatory requirements
Document Information
SBIR Phase III Contracting Guide
For DoD Acquisition Planning
Why Leverage SBIR Phase III Authority?
Navaide's AI-Driven Decision Support Framework transforms how DoD organizations operate by integrating fragmented enterprise data—from legacy systems to unstructured documents—into a unified, AI-powered analytics platform. Delivered as a professional service engagement, AI-DDSF enables mission-critical decisions through natural language queries, automated reporting, and real-time insight generation, all within a Zero Trust security architecture.
No Competition Required
15 U.S.C. §638(r)(4) provides statutory authority for sole-source awards without full and open competition
→ Faster acquisition timeline, reduced administrative burden
Unlimited Value & Duration
No dollar limit, duration limit, or contract type restriction for Phase III awards
→ Flexibility to structure contract for mission needs
No Formal J&A Required
SBA Policy Directive states "Further justification is not needed" beyond SBIR connection documentation
→ Reduced paperwork, faster processing
Small Business Participation
Maintains DoD small business utilization goals while accessing innovative technology
→ Mission capability + socioeconomic objectives
No Modification J&A
Modifications to Phase III contracts—including scope additions and ceiling adjustments—do not require a separate J&A under FAR Part 42, provided they remain within the original scope of SBIR-derived work
→ Agile contract management, responsive to changing needs
Purpose of This Guide
This SBIR Contracting Guide provides a concise reference guide for applying SBIR Phase III authority in accordance with statutory and regulatory requirements. It outlines the legal foundation, administrative procedures, and supporting documentation necessary to establish a defensible contracting record when awarding follow-on work that derives from, extends, or completes prior SBIR efforts. The guidance is intended to facilitate compliant, efficient, and mission-aligned acquisition planning for professional services, products, or hybrid solutions enabled by SBIR-developed technology.
Navigate the Guide
5-Step Contracting Process
Complete walkthrough from requirements gathering to contract award, including SBIR connection demonstration
Key Topics:
- •Requirements gathering
- •SBIR logical connection
- •Acquisition planning
- •RFP development
- •Contract award
Statutory Authority & Precedent
Complete legal foundation including USC, FAR, DFARS, SBA Policy Directive, and GAO case law
Key Topics:
- •15 U.S.C. §638(r)(4)
- •FAR 6.302-5 authority
- •GAO precedent analysis
SBIR Data Rights Explained
Complete guide to SBIR data rights protection, government obligations, and practical implications
Key Topics:
- •What IS protected
- •What IS NOT protected
- •Government rights
- •AI-DDSF specifics
Post-Award Management
Contract administration procedures, modifications, performance monitoring, and closeout
Key Topics:
- •FAR Part 42 procedures
- •Modification flexibility
- •Performance assessment
Templates & References
Glossary, acronyms, checklists, templates, and contact information
Key Topics:
- •Glossary & acronyms
- •CO checklist
- •Document templates
- •FAQ
About the Technology
Learn about the AI-DDSF framework powering Navaide's solutions
Important Notice
This guide provides general information on SBIR Phase III contracting procedures. All contract awards are entirely subject to the discretion and determination of the assigned contracting officer. The contracting officer's decisions, interpretations, and requirements supersede any content in this guide. This document does not create any contractual rights, obligations, or entitlements.