DOE SBIR/STTR Programs primarily uses the LOIs to establish the reviewer pool for the Phase I applications. The LOIs are reviewed by the Program Managers. If the LOI is considered to be not responsive to the topic/subtopic pair, applicants will receive an email indicated that it was deemed non-responsive and specific comments will be provided. DOE does not send emails for LOIs that appear to be responsive to the topic/subtopic pair.

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.  

Review the comments provided and consider the following actions: 

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 in you Phase I application. 
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 in your Phase I application.