NASA Sustainable Business Model Challenge Case Study
CLIENT
NASA
INDUSTRY
- Space
01
CASE
NASA Sustainable Business Model Challenge
02
Overview
Project Synopsis:
The NASA Sustainable Business Model Challenge seeks entrepreneurs, researchers, startups, and innovators to use NASA’s publicly available Earth system data sources to create sustainable business models to help build resilient infrastructure.
Winning participants will receive cash prizes, tailored mentorship from NASA and business experts, and access to a follow-on capability development program that will prepare them for
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) funding opportunities. Winners will also gain visibility through NASA channels, expanding their network and potential investor outreach.
Background of the Problem:
NASA generates vast amounts of Earth science data daily through satellites, radars, weather models, and other observation tools. However, the transition from raw data to commercially viable solutions remains a challenge. The NASA Sustainable Business Model Challenge aims to bridge this gap by encouraging innovators to build business models that translate Earth science data into actionable, revenue-generating applications. These solutions will ultimately contribute to NASA’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program by identifying high-potential businesses that could be eligible for future funding opportunities.
03
OUR
Approach
Ensemble, in partnership with Freelancer.com, is leading the design and execution of the challenge, providing expertise in competition management, outreach, and prize administration. Our role is to ensure that the challenge runs efficiently and effectively, maximizing impact and engagement.
Challenge Design and Execution:
Ensemble is responsible for developing a challenge framework that aligns with NASA’s objective of identifying and supporting sustainable business models using Earth science data. This includes crafting competition rules, refining eligibility criteria, and structuring the evaluation process to identify the most promising business models. By designing an accessible and engaging competition, we ensure that participants can successfully engage with NASA’s data to develop viable solutions.
Judge Recruitment and Evaluation Management:
A critical component of this challenge is selecting a qualified panel of judges who can assess submissions based on business viability, data utilization, and market potential. Ensemble is managing judge recruitment, ensuring that experts in entrepreneurship, sustainability, and NASA’s mission are involved in the evaluation process. We also oversee the judging process to maintain transparency and fairness.
SBIR Follow-on Support and Capability Development:
Beyond the competition, Ensemble provides structured SBIR training to help winning teams refine their business models and increase their readiness for NASA funding. This includes:
- Customized workshops on preparing strong SBIR proposals.
- One-on-one mentorship with industry experts to refine commercialization strategies.
- Follow-on support to connect winners with funding opportunities and resources to advance their business concepts.
Community Engagement and Outreach:
Ensemble is leveraging a multi-channel outreach outreach strategy to attract high-quality participants, including:
- Direct engagement with startups, entrepreneurs, and universities focused on Earth science applications.
- Strategic partnerships with innovation hubs and accelerators to expand the challenge’s reach.
- Marketing campaigns and webinars to educate potential participants on the opportunity.
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Results
Ensemble has partnered with Freelancer.com to leverage its extensive global network of skilled professionals, ensuring broad participation and high-quality submissions for this challenge. Freelancer.com brings access to a diverse talent pool, including experts in business analysis, data science, renewable energy, and environmental consulting. Through this collaboration, Ensemble can maximize outreach and engagement, connecting with innovators capable of transforming Earth science data into actionable business solutions.
This partnership enables:
- Challenge hosting on Freelancer.com – Submissions will be received and evaluated through the Freelancer platform.
- Targeted outreach to global talent pool – Ensuring participation from business leaders, data scientists, and sustainability experts.
- Robust community engagement – Direct interaction with solvers through the challenge platform
Results & Expected Impact
Bridging the Gap Between Science and Business:
This initiative allows participants to transform complex Earth science data into practical applications, ensuring that sustainability-driven solutions are backed by reliable scientific insights and aligned with commercialization pathways such as NASA’s SBIR program.
Scaling Sustainability Through Entrepreneurship:
By supporting startups and innovators, NASA aims to identify and nurture scalable, long-term solutions that integrate data-driven decision-making with economic sustainability. This approach ensures that groundbreaking innovations become an integral part of the business ecosystem. Additionally, participants will have access to SBIR training, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to prepare strong proposals for future funding opportunities, further supporting their growth and sustainability in the marketplace.
Participant Engagement & Expert Guidance:
With 115 registrants for the challenge’s webinar, participants have had the opportunity to gain insight into the challenge. This session will provide insights on how NASA’s data can be leveraged for business model development and innovation, offering direct engagement with experts who can answer questions and provide guidance on applying data effectively. Additionally, participants will be able to interact with mentors and industry leaders who can help refine their submissions and strengthen their business concepts.
How to Get Started
- Register on Freelancer.com:
Before submitting your concept paper, participants must sign up for the Freelancer.com platform. You will need an account to submit your solution on the challenge website.
- Register for the Challenge via the Registration Form:
Freelancer Users will then need to register for the challenge by filling out the Challenge Registration Form.
