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If you receive an email from DOE that your LOI is non-responsive, it does not mean that you cannot submit an application for your proposed project.  However, it is suggested that you return to the topic/subtopic pair again to determine what the issue may be and if it can be resolved.  If you believe that your proposal does address the topic/subtopic, it may be useful to speak with the topic author or topic manager.  As noted in the “Consult a Topic Manager” section of this guide, the contact information for the topic manager is included in the topics document at the end of each topic section.  It is best to email the manager and request a meeting via telephone as you can glean more information and insights in a conversation than possible in an email exchange.  

After the conversation with the topic author/manager, there are 3 possible outcomes: 

  1. If you still believe that the proposed project is responsive, work on providing greater clarity and strengthening the connection between the project and the topic/subtopic pair. 
  2. You may agree with the assessment provided by DOE and conclude that your proposed project is not responsive and do not follow through with the application.
  3. You agree that as the project is proposed it is not responsive but believe that it could be and adjust your approach accordingly.  

Pro tips 

  • Applicants will not receive an email regarding their LOI unless it is considered non-responsive.  Applicants whose LOIs are considered responsive will not be notified. 
  • As the Project Narrative and corresponding application documents will take some time to complete, do not stop working once you submit your LOI or wait for a non-responsive email.   
  • If possible, speak with a topic author/manager prior to submitting your LOI to ensure that you have a thorough understanding of the topic/subtopic pair. 
  • If you have not been able to speak with a topic author/manager after several attempts, send a polite email to sbir-sttr@science.doe.gov to ask for assistance.

Phase 0 Resources: 


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