Feds seek input on manufacturing policy, scientific data

The National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) has released a new request for information (RFI) related to a national strategic plan for advanced manufacturing, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) are seeking information on how the scientific community uses public data tools. Both RFIs provide an opportunity for the tech-based economic development field to shape the future of federal innovation policy. 

On behalf of the NSTC, the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) is seeking input from the public on ways to improve government coordination, and on long-term guidance for federal programs and activities in support of U.S. manufacturing competitiveness, including advanced manufacturing R&D that will create jobs, grow the economy across multiple industrial sectors, strengthen national security, enhance sustainability, contribute to climate change challenges, and improve health care. This input will inform OSTP and NSTC as they work with federal agencies and other stakeholders to develop the strategic plan. A series of public events has been organized at various technical conferences (in-person and virtual) from October to December to directly obtain input to the RFI questions. The full text of the RFI with instructions to respond is available here. Responses are due by Dec. 17, 2021.

NIH’s Office of Portfolio Analysis (OPA) has issued an RFI to seek input from the scientific community to advance the fundamental understanding of experiences in using a number of scientific data sources and tools, including iCite, PubMed, NIH RePORTER and more. Additional information and directions on how to reply is available here. Responses are due Oct. 15, 2021.