CASC Response to the U.S. National Science Foundation’s Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships RFI: Tech Labs Initiative

CASC supports experimentation with new funding models, while also urging NSF TIP to recognize that speed and flexibility must be matched with governance and accountability. Insufficient clarity around oversight, selection, and conflict-of-interest protections could undermine public trust.

To mitigate this risk, CASC strongly recommends:

• Clearly articulated governance frameworks
• Independent review and audit mechanisms
• Transparent criteria for selection, continuation, and termination

With these safeguards, Tech Labs could become a valuable addition to the national research and innovation ecosystem.