The D.4 University Leadership Initiative 2 (ULI2), offered by NASA Headquarters, is designed to support university teams in exercising technical and organizational leadership in the field of aeronautics research. This initiative enables university-led teams to propose and address unique technical challenges aligned with NASA’s aeronautics goals. Participating teams are expected to deliver multi-disciplinary research solutions, establish peer review mechanisms, and apply innovative teaming strategies to enhance the research impact and relevance to the broader aeronautics community.

The purpose of the ULI2 opportunity is to advance research aligned with six major topic areas known as Strategic Thrusts, which represent NASA's primary objectives for the transformation of aviation. These topic areas are: Safe, Efficient Growth in Global Operations; Innovation in Commercial High-Speed Aircraft; Ultra-Efficient Subsonic Transports; Safe, Quiet, and Affordable Vertical Lift Air Vehicles; In-Time System-Wide Safety Assurance; and Assured Autonomy for Aviation Transformation. Proposals are expected to target one or more of these thrusts and offer innovative approaches and technologies.

The ULI2 funding opportunity uses a cooperative agreement model and does not require cost-sharing or matching funds from the applicants. While specific award ceilings and total program funding are not listed, the cooperative nature of the agreement suggests active collaboration between NASA and the awardees. Proposals must be submitted through the NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES) and follow a two-step application process. Step-A proposals, which are mandatory, must be submitted by June 26, 2025. Based on these submissions, select applicants will be invited to proceed with full Step-B proposals.

Eligibility for the ULI2 opportunity is unrestricted, though the focus on university-led initiatives implies an emphasis on higher education institutions as lead applicants. There are no explicit limitations on geographical location, suggesting national eligibility. Interested teams can find resources and information about potential partnerships through the NASA ULI partnerships website. Additionally, an applicant workshop will be held on April 30, 2025, to assist prospective applicants in preparing their proposals.

Evaluation will be conducted in two stages. First, Step-A proposals will be reviewed to select those that are most highly rated for invitation to submit full Step-B proposals. Additional proposal preparation details and requirements can be found in the full solicitation text available via NSPIRES. NASA has also provided contact information and additional resources on its website, including a partner interest list and applicant guidance.

Important dates to note include the proposal opening date of March 31, 2025, and the final application deadline of June 26, 2025. The announcement archive date is July 26, 2025. Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend the virtual applicant workshop and review all available documentation carefully to ensure compliance and competitiveness in their submissions.