Call for Proposals - AIM Photonics Government Directed Project: Advanced Silicon Photonics for Enhanced Networking (ASPEN)

AIM Photonics invites those interested to submit proposals to the call for the AIM Photonics Government Directed Project (GDP): Advanced Silicon Photonics for Enhanced Networking (ASPEN). Multiple awards are anticipated under this program, which currently has $10M in funding. Additional federal funding may be available to support a second phase of this effort; however, it is expected that any future work would build on the results of this effort.

In this call, Advanced Silicon Photonics for Enhanced Networking (ASPEN) seeks proposals focused on creating data-center-relevant PIC-based components, subsystems, and systems that offer improved performance and reduced energy consumption when compared to the current state-of-the-art (SOTA). ASPEN challenges proposers not only to develop devices and systems with improved performance but also to work with AIM Photonics to transition those capabilities — systems could form the basis of future products while device work should result in access to new components, technologies, or packaging solutions for the overall AIM Photonics ecosystem.

All submissions must be received electronically on or before February 25, 2025 (no later than 11:59 PM (EST)).

Please note the following as you prepare to submit your proposals to this call.

  • ASPEN is a 24-month effort with two technical areas under AIM Photonics. ASPEN has additional funding in future years and offers the potential for ~18-month follow-on efforts (most likely via add-work modifications for those performers who have excelled during the “base” efforts solicited here).

  • Proposals for projects outside of the topic area (described in the Call for Proposals document) will not be considered for funding at this time.

  • A notice of intent is not required for this project call.

  • This call is open to anyone with a compelling proposal.

  • The responder who is chosen must either be a full, active AIM Photonics Member or enter the AIM Photonics membership contracting phase prior to an award being disbursed or work started.

Utilize the below links for information on proposer eligibility, submission guidelines, instructions, FAQs, and other requirements, as well as a link to the page where information is posted on our website. If you cannot access the documents below, contact Maria Halepis (MHalepis@aimphotonics.com).

The AIM Photonics point of contact for this project is Maria Halepis (MHalepis@aimphotonics.com).