The NASA TechLeap Prize is a competition designed to accelerate the development and flight testing of innovative space technologies. Sponsored by NASA and administered through the Carrot platform, the program provides funding and an opportunity for a flight demonstration aboard suborbital or orbital vehicles for selected applicants. The Space Technology Payload Challenge is the fourth iteration of the TechLeap Prize and aims to address technology shortfalls identified by NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) and the Commercially Enabled Rapid Space Science Initiative (CERISS). These shortfalls represent key areas requiring technological advancements to support future exploration, science, and mission needs.

Eligible applicants include individuals, teams, and organizations legally established and operating in the United States. Individuals must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, while organizations must be incorporated entities with a primary business location in the U.S. Teams must be led by an eligible U.S. individual or organization. Employees of NASA, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), and specific federal contractors are ineligible if they are receiving government funding for similar projects. Each eligible lead applicant may submit one application, although they may serve as a partner on another proposal.

The competition is structured into multiple phases. Initial winners receive an award of $200,000, followed by a competitive Payload Build Round 1, where winners can receive an additional $200,000. Those advancing to Payload Build Round 2 compete for an additional $100,000. Winners of Round 2 are eligible for a NASA-sponsored flight test at no additional cost. Each winning team must complete the development of their technology and be flight-ready within eight months of selection.

Applicants must propose a technology addressing at least one of NASA’s identified shortfalls, providing a clear description of its impact and potential benefits. The application includes a video pitch, detailed technical descriptions, technology readiness level (TRL) assessments, and a comprehensive project plan, including development strategies, risk mitigation approaches, and flight test readiness. Budget requirements and a timeline for completion must also be outlined, ensuring that the proposed technology can be developed within the competition's constraints.

Submission requirements include proof of liability insurance of at least $250,000 and verification of eligibility. The deadline for applications is March 20, 2025, at 5:00 PM Eastern Time. Winners must comply with all reporting and participation requirements, including submitting a final report detailing test results, lessons learned, and future commercialization plans. NASA may also negotiate licensing agreements with winners for further technology development. The selection process involves an Evaluation Panel scoring applications based on a defined rubric, considering factors such as the strength of the technology, feasibility for flight testing, potential benefits, and project management capabilities.