NGA works with solution providers across industry, academia, government and internationally to drive innovative development of geospatial technologies.

Learn more about our outreach initiatives below.

CRADAs are agreements between one or more federal agencies or laboratories and one or more non-federal parties that are mutually beneficial to both parties. This collaborative R&D does not require a traditional federal contract process, (i.e., non-FAR). CRADAs establish a low-risk, flexible relationship that enables strategic partnership.

EPAs are established with academic institutions in the United States for the purpose of encouraging and enhancing study in scientific disciplines at all levels of education. Under an EPA, NGA personnel can be available to teach science courses or assist in the development. EPAs engage academic faculty and students in NGA projects. 

PIAs allow a non-profit intermediary to engage academia and industry on behalf of the Government. It enables a long-term partnership between a federal Government laboratory and a state or local government or affiliated non-profit. It also facilitates joint projects and accelerates tech transfer between the lab and private companies. Additionally, it engages industry and regional economies interested in commercializing federal technology.

Patents grant exclusive rights for an invention. It protects NGA inventors’ rights from false claims and licenses the patented technology to third parties.