The US Air Force Research Laboratory at Kirtland Air Force Base, NM has issued a contract to establish Innovation-Nodes (iNodes), which will be small, flexible organizations that execute Rapid Reaction Innovation solution efforts or tasks. It’s all part of a concept called the Innovation Network (iNet), also referred to as iSUN (Innovative Solutions to Urgent Needs) – see this iNet/iNode briefing page, and this 2005 presentation [PDF format]
Applied Minds in Glendale, CA (FA9453-06-D-0103) and Raytheon Co. in Tucson, AZ (FA9453-06-D-0104) received indefinite-delivery/ indefinite-quantity contracts under the iNodes/iSUN program. The Air Force can issue specific delivery orders to the contract winners totaling up to $30 million, although it can choose to spend less. Solicitation began September 2005, negotiations were complete November 2005, and work will be complete by November 2008.