AI Defense Grants

ONR FY25 Long Range Broad Agency Announcement for Navy and Marine Corps Science and Technology (AI and Autonomous Systems Topics) is sponsored by U.S. Office of Naval Research (ONR). This Broad Agency Announcement from the Office of Naval Research seeks proposals for science and technology projects relevant to the Navy and Marine Corps, specifically including topics in AI and autonomous systems.

The Office of Naval Research Long Range Broad Agency Announcement (BAA N00014-25-S-B001) is ONR's primary solicitation for basic and applied research proposals, accepting submissions on a rolling basis through September 30, 2026. ONR's AI priorities center on autonomous maritime systems, human-machine teaming, and machine learning for sensor fusion. Individual awards typically range from $100,000 for exploratory research to $2 million for larger applied programs. The BAA covers all ONR science and technology departments, with AI-related research falling under key areas including ocean battlespace sensing, command-decision-superiority, and warfighter performance. This is the broadest entry point for academic researchers and companies seeking ONR funding for AI and autonomous systems research, complementing the more targeted Young Investigator Program and MURI solicitations.

The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) Long Range BAA (N00173-24-S-BA01) supports basic and applied scientific research to enhance the operational capabilities of the Navy and Marine Corps. NRL is the Navy's corporate laboratory and conducts research across a comprehensive range of science and engineering disciplines. AI and autonomous systems are specifically included as priority research areas, encompassing machine learning, computer vision, natural language processing, autonomous navigation, human-machine teaming, and intelligent decision support systems. The BAA uses a two-step process: white papers are accepted on a rolling basis through September 30, 2026, with full proposals invited only after favorable white paper review. This BAA is distinct from the ONR Long Range BAA — NRL is a separate research laboratory with its own solicitation, focused more on in-house laboratory collaboration and technology transition rather than broad academic research funding. NRL research areas also include acoustics, materials science, space science, and electronic warfare, creating opportunities for AI applications across multiple scientific domains.

DARPA Biological Technologies Office (BTO) Programs (BAA HR001126S0003) is sponsored by Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). DARPA's BTO is soliciting proposals for innovative research that leverages biological properties and processes to advance national security, including significant advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to create new opportunities for transformativ…

Biological Technologies Broad Agency Announcement (HR001126S0003) is sponsored by Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Biological Technologies Office (BTO). DARPA BTO is soliciting proposals that leverage biological properties and processes to revolutionize the ability to protect the nation's warfighters. This includes harnessing advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to create new opportunities for transformative science across the biological spectrum. Specific interests include discovering interventions that utilize biotechnology, biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, neuroscience, psychology, cognitive science, social and behavioral science, and related disciplines to assess and optimize human performance and teaming.

Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning for Photonics, Power & Energy, Atmospherics, and Quantum Science (N0001425SB001) is sponsored by Office of Naval Research (ONR). This Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) from the ONR solicits basic and applied research and advanced technology development for the Navy and Marine Corps. It specifically includes Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) for Photonics, Power & Energy, Atmospherics, and Quantum Science. The program aims to explore how AI systems can be trained to learn on their own and perform multiple tasks, identifying patterns in data, building models, and making predictions without explicit preprogrammed rules.

Digital Europe Programme calls to support Artificial Intelligence (AI) in health, digital health, digital skills, and online safety is sponsored by European Commission. This program launched several calls to support AI in health, digital health, digital skills, and online safety. Part of the funding will also bolster the adoption and deployment of transformative digital technologies across Europe.

Novel Experiential Technologies Assisting Individual Learning (NExT AI) Hubs is sponsored by National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH). This funding opportunity invites exploratory grant applications to address the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies on developmental outcomes in children diagnosed with or at risk for developing a specific learning disability (SLD) impacting reading, writing, and …

Development and Testing of a Multi-use Frameworks Playbook for Precision Medicine with AI: Integrating Imaging with Multimodal Data (PRIMED-AI) (U01 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) is sponsored by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; National Institutes of Health. This NOFO solicits applications for the design, development, and preliminary validation of robust frameworks for the application of multimodal-artificial intelligence (AI) models for clinical use, as part of the PRIMED-AI Program.

Utah AI Moonshot Program (Spark Grants) is sponsored by Nucleus Institute (in partnership with Utah System of Higher Education and Governor's Office). A new $5 million competitive grant program to support artificial intelligence research that improves the lives of Utahns. Projects should address challenges in mental health, water, healthcare, autonomous systems, and other emerging AI opportunities.

Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program (DoD) - AI is sponsored by Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). The DARPA SBIR program funds U.S. small businesses to develop innovative technologies, including AI, to advance national security. It targets emerging technologies for use by the military, with a focus on high-risk, high-reward R&D.

The European Innovation Council Pathfinder Challenge on Physical AI funds visionary research in embedded intelligence for autonomous robotics at the earliest technology readiness levels (TRL 1-3). Awards of up to EUR 4 million support projects exploring how AI can be physically embedded into robotic systems to achieve truly autonomous behavior in unstructured real-world environments. The challenge focuses on embodied intelligence — AI systems that learn and adapt through physical interaction with their environment rather than purely through data-driven approaches. Unlike most EU programmes, the EIC Pathfinder does not require large consortia, making it accessible to individual researchers, small university teams, and startups pursuing breakthrough concepts. This ARPA-style programme emphasizes high-risk, high-reward research that could fundamentally reshape autonomous robotics. The deadline is October 28, 2026. This is distinct from the EIC Pathfinder DeepRAP Challenge (focused on reasoning, abstraction, and planning in cognitive AI) and from Horizon Europe robotics calls that target higher TRL levels.

U.S. Army DevX Autonomy Open Call Solicitation for AI-Enabled Autonomous and Robotic Systems is sponsored by U.S. Army Applications Laboratory (AAL), Army Futures Command. This open call solicits proposals from companies developing AI-enabled autonomous systems, robotics, and machine-learning capabilities relevant to Army missions. This includes areas such as perception, navigation, decision-making, and human-machine teaming.

The DARPA Information Innovation Office (I2O) FY2026 Office-Wide Broad Agency Announcement (BAA HR001126S0001) is the widest entry point for AI researchers with breakthrough ideas that do not fit a specific named DARPA program. I2O is DARPA's home for artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, autonomy, and information science research. Released November 28, 2025, this BAA solicits innovative research concepts across the full spectrum of AI and information technology, including machine learning, autonomous systems, cybersecurity, natural language processing, computer vision, human-AI teaming, and novel computing architectures. Proposal Abstracts are due by November 1, 2026, and Full Proposals by November 30, 2026. This BAA is distinct from other DARPA office-wide BAAs (STO, TTO, BTO, DSO) and specifically targets the information and AI research space. It enables researchers from academia, industry, and small businesses to propose bold, high-risk high-reward ideas directly to DARPA without waiting for a named program solicitation.

Small Business Innovation Research / Small Business Technology Transfer Phase I, Phase II, Fast-Track Programs SBIR/STTR: Developing Deep Technologies that Advance U.S. Competitiveness and Security - Artificial Intelligence (AI) is sponsored by National Science Foundation (NSF). This SBIR/STTR topic focuses on cutting-edge technologies in deep learning-based AI systems and AI-based hardware. It emphasizes next-generation AI technologies that are safe, reliable, fair, robust against adversaries, privacy-preserving, and efficient.

Unlocking Dataset Value for AI-Enabled Scientific Discovery (AI Datasets) (NSF 26-512) is sponsored by U.S. National Science Foundation Directorate for Computer and Information Science and Engineering, Office of Advanced Cyberinfrastructure, Division of Computer and Network Systems, Directorate for Biological Sciences, Directorate for Engineering, Directorate for Geosciences, Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships. This program will advance scientific community datasets to enable scientific discovery and innovation using artificial intelligence (AI) and other methods.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) - NSF Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)/Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) is sponsored by U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). This program focuses on cutting-edge technologies in deep learning-based AI systems and AI-based hardware, emphasizing next-generation AI technologies that are safe, reliable, fair, robust, privacy-preserving, and efficient. It explicitly includes Computer Vision Based AI Technologies. Small businesses can receive non-dilutive funding for high-risk, high-impact technologies with strong commercial potential.

Unlocking Dataset Value for AI-Enabled Scientific Discovery (AI Datasets) is sponsored by National Science Foundation (NSF). This program will advance scientific community datasets to enable scientific discovery and innovation using artificial intelligence (AI) and other methods. Its goal is to increase the value that can be derived from existing scientific datasets by leveraging novel methods and artificial intelligence (AI).  This will unlock new AI-driven insights. It can enable interdisciplinary research. It also enables investigations outside of the original motivation for data collection and analysis. The program seeks to 1) apply AI-based capabilities to feature extraction and metadata generation, and the integration of multiple datasets.  2) Develop robust data pipelines necessary for automated analysis of existing datasets and similar use-cases by AI tools and systems. 3) Augment and/or harmonize existing datasets to better enable use by AI data pipelines and automated analysis.  Proposals should address dataset security and integrity.  Governance and the process for scientific communities to contribute to the datasets should also be addressed. Proposals are encouraged to leverage existing resources. These may include  NSF data platforms , the NSF Integrated Data Systems and Services program , the NSF-led National AI Research Resource , the Genesis Mission platform , or other national infrastructure. NSF is open to exploring partnerships with philanthropy, private industry, or the non-profit sector to support additional proposals or collaborative opportunities that will advance AI-driven scientific discovery through unlocking the value of high-impact scientific datasets. Expanding Participation in STEM, NSF Priorities, and Gold Standard Science: NSF prioritizes cutting-edge discovery science and engineering research, advancing technology and innovation, and creating opportunities for all Americans. NSF has established priorities set forth by Congress, the administration and the NSF director to promote  NSF's mission . Proposers should review the list of  NSF priorities  and are encouraged to align their proposals with them, where appropriate. NSF also expects the highest standards of scientific rigor, integrity and adherence tenets of  Gold   Standard Science  in proposals, as appropriate for the field of science and research modality. Unlocking Dataset Value for AI-Enabled Scientific Discovery (AI Datasets). Program guideline: NSF 26-512. Upcoming due date listed in NSF feed.

The European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator is the EU's flagship blended-finance program for high-potential deep tech startups and SMEs, with 2026 cut-off dates on 7 January, 4 March, 6 May, 8 July, 2 September, and 4 November. The Accelerator funds breakthrough innovations at Technology Readiness Levels 6-8, with AI as one of the explicit Strategic Challenges of the program (alongside semiconductors, quantum, biotech, and cleantech). Funded AI companies have included generative AI startups, AI-enabled medical devices, robotics platforms, autonomous systems, and AI for industry. Each funded company receives up to EUR 2.5 million as a non-dilutive grant for innovation activities plus EUR 1-10 million as direct equity investment from the EIC Fund (optional). Total 2026 budget is EUR 634 million split into EUR 220 million for Strategic Challenges (which include AI and digital tech) and EUR 414 million for the Open call. Strong fit for European AI startups building deep-tech products with global market potential.

This program will advance scientific community datasets to enable scientific discovery and innovation using artificial intelligence (AI) and other methods. Its goal is to increase the value that can be derived from existing scientific datasets by leveraging novel methods and artificial intelligence (AI). This will unlock new AI-driven insights. It can enable interdisciplinary research. It also enables investigations outside of the original motivation for data collection and analysis. The program seeks to 1) apply AI-based capabilities to feature extraction and metadata generation, and the integration of multiple datasets. 2) Develop robust data pipelines necessary for automated analysis of existing datasets and similar use-cases by AI tools and systems. 3) Augment and/or harmonize existing datasets to better enable use by AI data pipelines and automated analysis. Proposals should address dataset security and integrity. Governance and the process for scientific communities to contribute to the datasets should also be addressed. Proposals are encouraged to leverage existing resources. These may includeNSF data platforms, the NSF Integrated Data Systems and Services program, the NSF-led National AI Research Resource, the Genesis Mission platform, or other national infrastructure. NSF is open to exploring partnerships with philanthropy, private industry, or the non-profit sector to support additional proposals or collaborative opportunitiesthat will advance AI-driven scientific discovery through unlocking the value of high-impact scientific datasets. Expanding Participation in STEM, NSF Priorities, and Gold Standard Science: NSF prioritizes cutting-edge discovery science and engineering research, advancing technology and innovation, and creating opportunities for all Americans. NSF has established priorities set forth by Congress, the administration and the NSF director to promoteNSF's mission. Proposers should review the list ofNSF prioritiesand are encouraged to align their proposals with them, where appropriate. NSF also expects the highest standards of scientific rigor, integrity and adherence tenets ofGoldStandard Sciencein proposals, as appropriate for the field of science and research modality. Funding Opportunity Number: 26-512. Assistance Listing: 47.041,47.049,47.050,47.070,47.074,47.084. Funding Instrument: G. Category: ST. Award Amount: $100M total program funding.

Reliability of age assessment methods in the context of security and border management is sponsored by European Commission — Horizon Europe. Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to some or all of the following expected outcomes: Improved protection of minors, including by more reliable age assessments and by minimising the use of intrusive age assessment methods; Improved adaptation, preparedness and cooperation of authorities in the fight against human trafficking; Expanded European-based knowledge on reliability, accuracy and effectiveness of age assessment methods. Scope: Many unaccompanied children and young persons arriving at the external EU borders and seeking asylum, lack official documents showing their identity and age. Age assessment methods are important as they contribute to the determination of, for example, where an individual will be initially housed and what services, supports, and legal processes they will receive to ensure protection and, if applicable, child protection. In other cases, minors are victim of trafficking of human beings (THB) criminal activities, either across the EU external borders, or within the EU borders. In other cases again, age assessment methods are necessary for law enforcement investigations on protecting children, forensic investigation, and/or the identification of victims. No age assessment method can offer a 100% reliability. Different approaches have different sensitivity and specificity, and different sample sizes and representativeness, and some approaches are based on a non-European knowledge base. Furthermore, there is considerable variation in methods of age assessment. Methods may use approaches as diverse as interviews, psychological assessments and other holistic approaches; medical approaches such as X-rays, CT scans, DNA methylation, dental observation, or other analyses; other approaches such as image analysis; and they may use or not artificial intelligence (AI) for data analysis. EU regulations, and guidelines by the European Union Asylum Agency (EUAA)[[ EASO Age assessment practices in EU+ countries: updated findings (europa.eu) https://euaa.europa.eu/sites/default/files/EASO_Age_assessment_practices_updated.pdf []], include safeguards and recommendations, such as that the least invasive methods should be used, and that medical methods should be used as a last resort. Further studies, reports or documents have also been elaborated by the European Migration Network [1] , European networks of security practitioners for innovation, as well as at national level. The action funded by this topic should also consider these, as well as previous research, including but not limited to research by other relevant EU Framework Programmes projects. This Coordination and Support Action should not develop methods or technologies of age assessment. Rather, it will analyse, including with practitioners, the current and potential methods for age assessment. It should assess and compare scientific reliability, sensitivity and specificity of different methods, as well as their potential risks for fundamental rights and how to minimize them. While the research results would not imply any legislative or policy decision on age assessment methods, the research will develop evidence-based results on options for more (compared to the state-of-the-art) appropriate models of age assessment methods that protect fundamental rights, ensuring the use of an inclusive approach that addresses diverse needs. The results of research funded by this topic will contribute to capabilities for better identification of children and minors in the migratory, security, border management and other contexts, following the principles of the EU Strategy on the rights of the child [2] . They will also contribute to the exchange of practices among European authorities. Synergies with other Horizon Europe Cluster 3 Destinations, such as “Better protect the EU and its citizens against Crime and Terrorism” and “Disaster-Resilient Society for Europe”, as well as with Destinations of Horizon Europe Cluster 2 “Inclusive Society”. [1] ht Programme areas: Horizon Europe (HORIZON), Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness, Civil Security for Society, Protection and Security Keywords: Border and coastguards, Border and external security, Ensure Identification and control of goods and people, Organised crime, Security, Trafficking in human beings, age assessment, border management, borders, minors, preparedness, protection, security

Development of innovative tools, processes, equipment and technologies through responses to disasters and emergencies for search and rescue in hazardous conditions is sponsored by European Commission — Horizon Europe. Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to some or all of the following expected outcomes: Creation of cutting-edge tools, processes, equipment and technologies to enhance disaster and emergency response capabilities for various practitioners as well as for assets, such as vehicles, aircraft, and heavy equipment; Taking into consideration existing technologies, development of autonomous drones, robotics, and other technologies specifically designed for emergency medical response and search and rescue operations in hazardous conditions such as wildfires, earthquakes and large-scale events; Improvement of response efficiency and safety for survivors and emergency practitioners through the adoption of advanced, technology-driven solutions in disaster scenarios; Consider needs of existing EU-level capacities, emergency reserves, and stockpiling in the deployment of the assets and being able to move them. Scope: The scope of this topic is the development of innovative tools, equipment, and technologies to enhance the capabilities of emergency responders operating in complex and hazardous disaster environments. By leveraging advancements in smart protective equipment, in robotics, autonomous systems, remote sensing, communication and human sensor technologies, the aim is to improve the efficiency, safety, and effectiveness of emergency medical response and search and rescue operations, particularly in high-risk scenarios, such as wildfires, earthquakes and large-scale trauma events. Proposals should explore the design, testing, and validation of innovative solutions capable of performing critical tasks in disaster-stricken areas. These technologies should be tailored to operate in extreme conditions, including high temperatures, unstable terrains, and low-visibility environments and beneficial to all individuals regardless of their age, gender or ability. Research should address challenges related to autonomous navigation, AI-driven decision-making, real-time situational awareness, and seamless integration with existing command-and-control systems used by disaster management. Collaboration of different practitioners should be supported to support proper market uptake. Efforts should be made to enhance interoperability and data-sharing capabilities between various platforms, emergency response teams, and crisis management systems. A key aspect of this research should be the practical deployment and validation of these technologies through field exercises and simulations in real-world disaster scenarios. User-driven design approaches, prioritising inclusivity and accessibilities should ensure that developed solutions align with the operational needs of responders in disasters., Proposals should develop a command-and-control solution that allows organisation of all activities, ensuring a swift, coordinated, and effective response to any disaster with clear plan for uptake after the project. Projects should conduct a stakeholder or market analysis and a roadmap or plan for uptake of the developed methodologies, findings, and technologies to the industry, the research and innovation community, and the relevant authorities. The current response capacities of the European Civil Protection Pool [1] its capacity gaps [2] , and the rescEU strategic reserve [3] as well as the EU Stockpiling Strategy should be taken into account in the roadmap to ensure needs-based approach. Thus, the proposals could consider innovation for heavier assets, such as flood containment and high-capacity pumping, transport or response aircraft, shelters and power generators, ground firefighting vehicles and aerial firefighting helicopters. Furthermore, proposals should consider ethical, legal, and social implications associated with the deployment of autonomous technologies in emergency response. Issues such as data privacy, cybersecurity, human- and animal life protection, public acceptance, and compliance with regulatory frameworks should be a Programme areas: Horizon Europe (HORIZON), Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness, Civil Security for Society, Disaster-Resilient Societies Keywords: Disaster resilience and crisis management, First responders, Incident Response, Long term health hazard prevention in security related situations, Policy and Support, Security, deployment, disaster and emergency response capabilities, disasters, drones, emergencies, end-users, hazardous conditions, innovative tools, practitioners, resilience, robotics, search and rescue, technology-driven solutions in disaster scenarios

DURIP is the quiet infrastructure grant behind a large share of university AI research that DoD later builds on, and it is frequently overlooked because it funds equipment rather than people. Under opportunity W911NF26S0095, the FY2027 competition provides funds for accredited U.S. institutions of higher education to acquire major research equipment and instrumentation supporting defense-relevant research and the education of scientists and engineers. For AI groups the relevant use is direct: GPU and accelerator clusters, high-performance computing and storage for large model training, robotic platforms and manipulators, sensor and perception rigs, autonomous ground and air testbeds, and instrumented environments for human-machine teaming experiments. Awards are one year and range from $50,000 to $3,000,000 against roughly $28 million in total FY2027 funding, which is about $6 million below the FY2026 level - a tightening that makes the fit between the requested instrument and an existing DoD-relevant research portfolio more decisive than in past cycles. The structural point applicants often miss is that DURIP is not a standalone equipment purchase program: proposals are evaluated on how the instrumentation enables defense-relevant research, so the strongest submissions are anchored to active or planned ARO, ONR or AFOSR research and are written by PIs with a visible track record in the sponsoring service's portfolio. Eligibility is narrower than most DoD basic research announcements - accredited U.S. institutions of higher education with degree-granting programs in science, mathematics or engineering, explicitly excluding for-profit educational institutions, with University Affiliated Research Centers also permitted to apply. There is no cost-share requirement, but institutional commitment to house, maintain and staff the instrument is a practical evaluation factor. Full proposals are due November 6, 2026 at 5:00 PM Eastern, and because the three service research offices issue parallel solicitations under the same program, applicants should read the specific service announcement matching their research area rather than a generic DURIP summary.

Information Innovation Office (I2O) Office-Wide BAA (HR001126S0001) is sponsored by Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Information Innovation Office (I2O). This BAA seeks groundbreaking research in information science, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and complex software systems. It explicitly mentions Transformative AI as a primary thrust area, which can encompass applied mathematics for model discovery in AI systems. The BAA is designed for bold, unconventional approaches.

DARPA Information Innovation Office BAA is sponsored by Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). This Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) from DARPA's Information Innovation Office solicits innovative research concepts across the full spectrum of AI and information technology. This includes areas such as machine learning, autonomous systems, cybersecurity, natural language processing, computer vision, human-AI teaming, and novel computing architectures. The BAA is refreshed annually to reflect DARPA's evolving national security priorities, and researchers are encouraged to propose ideas that may fall outside current program priorities but have potential value to national security. Research related to understanding and countering influence operations would align with the office's focus on information innovation.

Examining the Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Healthcare Safety (R18 PA-24-261 for Evaluating Deployed Clinical AI Systems) is sponsored by Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). Funds research to determine (1) whether and how breakthrough uses of AI systems affect patient safety in real clinical environments and (2) how AI systems can be safely implemented and used in healthcare delivery. This NOFO explicitly does not support development of new AI systems but rather the rigorous post-deployment evaluation of AI in live clinical settings. Topics can include AI-driven diagnostic safety and equity impacts of clinical AI, which could be applied to breast cancer imaging AI.

AHRQ PA-24-261 funds research to determine (1) whether and how breakthrough uses of AI systems affect patient safety in real clinical environments and (2) how AI systems can be safely implemented and used in healthcare delivery. The R18 mechanism funds evaluation - this NOFO explicitly does not support development of new AI systems but rather the rigorous post-deployment evaluation of AI in live clinical settings, complementing AHRQ's broader digital healthcare portfolio. Topics include AI failure mode analysis, alert fatigue from clinical AI, AI-driven diagnostic safety, equity impacts of clinical AI, and human-AI team performance in care delivery. Strong fit for health services researchers, patient safety researchers, and health systems studying AI deployment outcomes.

The Genesis Mission: Transforming Science and Energy with AI is sponsored by U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Office of Science (SC). This opportunity supports technologies that advance American leadership in artificial intelligence (AI) in alignment with DOE's Genesis Mission. It is offered through DOE's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs.

Transforming Science and Energy with AI is sponsored by Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science (SC). This program seeks applications from interdisciplinary teams to accelerate scientific discovery and research and development (R&D) workflows using novel artificial intelligence (AI) models and frameworks. While broad, research in graph learning and spectral network diffusion dynamics could contribute to AI advancements in scientific domains relevant to energy and other critical areas.

The Genesis Mission: Transforming Science and Energy with AI is sponsored by U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Office of Science, Basic Energy Sciences (BES). This program focuses on integrating artificial intelligence (AI) to transform science and energy research. While specific to AI, it aligns with BES's mission to advance fundamental science.

Genesis Mission: Transforming Science and Energy with AI is sponsored by U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science (SC). Supports interdisciplinary teams addressing national science and technology challenges to accelerate scientific discovery and research and development (R&D) workflows using novel artificial intelligence (AI) models and frameworks, with a focus on advancing DOE's mission in areas…

The Genesis Mission: Transforming Science and Energy with AI (DE-FOA-0003612) is sponsored by U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science, Office of Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation (CMEI), Office of Environmental Management (EM), Office of Nuclear Energy (NE), Office of Electricity (OE), and Hydrocarbons and Geothermal Office (HGEO). This funding opportunity invites applications from interdisciplinary teams addressing the Genesis Mission National Science and Technology Challenges to accelerate scientific discovery and research and development (R&D) workflows using novel artificial intelligence (AI) models an…

The Genesis Mission: Transforming Science and Energy with AI is sponsored by U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science (SC), Office of Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation (CMEI), Office of Environmental Management (EM), Office of Nuclear Energy (NE), Office of Electricity (OE), and Hydrocarbons and Geothermal Office (HGEO). Seeks applications from interdisciplinary teams addressing the Genesis Mission National Science and Technology Challenges to accelerate scientific discovery and research and development (R&D) workflows using novel artificial intelligence (AI) models and frameworks.

The DOE Office of Science (SC), Office of Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation (CMEI), Office of Environmental Management (EM), Office of Nuclear Energy (NE), Office of Electricity (OE), and Hydrocarbons and Geothermal Office (HGEO) hereby announce interest in receiving applications from interdisciplinary teams addressing the Genesis Mission National Science and Technology Challenges to accelerate scientific discovery and research and development (R&D) workflows using novel artificial intelligence (AI) models and frameworks. By achieving AI advantage, these teams will advance the DOE's mission and ensure America’s security and prosperity by addressing energy, environmental, and nuclear challenges through science and technology. Teams are encouraged to leverage the extensive scientific and data resources of the DOE/National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), the National Laboratories, U.S. industry, and academia. The resulting AI models and workflows, if successful, may be integrated into the American Science Cloud. DOE is soliciting new FY26 Phase I small team and Phase II large team applications in the following topic areas: advanced manufacturing, biotechnology, critical materials, nuclear fission, nuclear fusion, quantum information science, semiconductors and microelectronics, discovery science, and energy (see specific focus areas in Section III Program Descriptions). In addition, this RFA will remain available to allow the recipients of FY26 Phase I awards to apply for larger team Phase II awards. In a few weeks, DOE plans to amend the RFA to clarify the LOI and application guidelines for FY26 Phase II awards. In FY27, DOE plans to amend the RFA or to issue an alternative funding opportunity to update the topic and focus areas to allow a second competition of Phase I small team applications and Phase II large team applications. Funding Opportunity Number: DE-FOA-0003612. Assistance Listing: 81.049. Funding Instrument: O. Category: ST. Award Amount: $500K – $16M per award.

USSOCOM Engage SOF (eSOF) is a Commercial Solutions Opening providing a rolling pathway for companies to submit AI and autonomous systems technologies aligned with Special Operations Forces capability needs across 14 domains including AI, ISR, cyber, mobility, weapons/electronic attack, command and control, ISR, and human performance. Selected vendors gain direct access to USSOCOM Program Executive Offices and rapid acquisition pathways. The program emphasizes AI, autonomy, drone warfare, and human-machine teaming as SOF transforms into the Pentagon's lead integrator of these technologies, with a portfolio of 487 active CRADAs and 832 active BAA submissions.

Cisco Research runs a rolling university research funding program that supports academic work across AI/ML, computer vision, natural language processing, cybersecurity, quantum information processing, networking and distributed systems. Several of the currently open calls target generative AI directly: Distributed Systems Security for Generative AI, Embodied AI, Enhancing Factuality and Reasoning in Generative AI Models, and LLM-Based Autonomous Systems. Awards are typically $50,000 to $100,000 and are made as unrestricted research gifts or sponsored research agreements, which means low administrative overhead and no intellectual property claim in the gift structure. Cisco Research emphasizes open publication and encourages open-source release of resulting artifacts, and successful teams are frequently renewed with follow-on and multi-year funding. Because submissions are accepted on a rolling basis through 31 December 2026 rather than at a single hard deadline, this is an unusually accessible source of flexible funding for faculty who want to start a generative AI research thread without waiting for a federal cycle. Proposals are submitted through the Cisco Research funding portal, and the program is open to faculty at universities worldwide, not only in the United States.

Cisco Research Open Requests for Proposals for Generative AI, Embodied AI and LLM-Based Autonomous Systems is sponsored by Cisco Research (Cisco Systems, Inc.). Cisco Research runs a rolling university research funding program that supports academic work across AI/ML, computer vision, natural language processing, cybersecurity, quantum information processing, networking, and distributed systems.

DARPA's TIAMAT (Transfer from Imprecise and Abstract Models to Autonomous Technologies) program develops sim-to-real transfer techniques that train autonomous systems in low-fidelity, abstract simulations and reliably deploy them in unpredictable physical environments. Research targets foundations for rapid sim-to-real generalization, robustness to physics-model error, and transfer learning across morphology and sensor configurations. The program is structured as two 18-month phases and supports applications including ground autonomy, aerial autonomy, and robotic manipulation in adversarial, novel, or contested settings. Awards have included University of Central Florida ($1.2M) and other academic and industry performers. TIAMAT is a core DARPA investment in foundational autonomy R&D.

The 2026 ERDC Broad Agency Announcement (W912HZ26S0001) solicits research proposals across a broad range of engineering and scientific disciplines with significant AI and computational focus areas. Issued January 2, 2026, the BAA covers research in AI, computer science, remote sensing, geophysics, telecommunications, hydraulics, dredging, coastal engineering, instrumentation, oceanography, geotechnical engineering, earthquake engineering, vehicle mobility, military engineering, protective structures, infrastructure and environmental issues, energy, facilities maintenance, materials and structures, and ecological processes. ERDC seeks proposals applying machine learning, computer vision, autonomous systems, and AI-driven modeling to advance Army engineering capabilities across both military and civil works applications.

NASBA Accounting Education Research Grants Program is sponsored by National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA). This program supports research on educational issues impacting CPAs, the public accounting profession, and state boards' charge to protect the public. The 2027 Call for Proposals is open and seeks projects addressing pressing issues like the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on auditing and the growing role of private equity investment in accounting firms.

Government and the nation face a talent shortfall in artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity. The CyberAICorps Scholarship for Service (CyberAI SFS) program welcomes proposals that address AI and cybersecurity education and workforce development. CyberAI refers to using AI in cybersecurity as well as providing security and resilience for AI systems. The Scholarship Track provides funding to establish, or to continue, scholarship for service programs with integrated AI and cybersecurity components (CyberAI). Scholarship recipients must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents and work after graduation in the AI or cybersecurity mission of a government organization for a period of at least the length of the scholarship. The Innovation Track supports projects that enhance preparation of AI and/or cybersecurity professionals. Projects may expand existing educational opportunities, curricula, degree programs, educational pathways, methods and interventions, and partnerships among institutions of higher education, government, and employers. Two statutes authorize this program: 15 USC §7442 (cybersecurity) and 42 USC §18993 (AI). CyberAI SFS aligns with the Executive Order 14277 to prioritize AI within scholarship for service programs. CyberAI is managed by NSF’s Directorate for STEM Education in collaboration with the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Funding Opportunity Number: 26-503. Assistance Listing: 47.076. Funding Instrument: G. Category: ST. Award Amount: $300K – $2.5M per award.

The DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory Broad Agency Announcement (W911NF-23-S-0001) is ARL's primary mechanism for funding basic and applied research supporting the Army's mission, and is a rolling solicitation open until November 20, 2027. AI and machine learning are explicit priority areas, alongside cyber-physical systems and advanced learning-enabled systems. Sub-portfolio topics include computational sciences, intelligent systems and robotics, network sciences, human-autonomy teaming, and soldier cognition and performance, with robotics research spanning ground and air autonomous systems. Applicants are encouraged to contact the ARL Technical Point of Contact before submitting a white paper or full proposal.

This is the workhorse vehicle for getting Army basic research money into AI and autonomy work, and its distinguishing feature is duration: BAA W911NF-23-S-0001, the DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory Broad Agency Announcement for Foundational Research, remains open until November 20, 2027, accepting proposals on a rolling basis rather than through an annual competition. That makes it structurally different from the deadline-driven solicitations that dominate this space - a team can approach ARL when the science is ready rather than when the calendar says so. The AI and autonomy content is concentrated in several named research programs and Collaborative Research Alliances that proposals can align to: Human Autonomy Teaming, which addresses human-machine collaboration; the Distributed and Collaborative Intelligent Systems and Technology CRA, covering collaborative autonomous systems and multi-agent coordination; the Scalable, Adaptive and Resilient Autonomy CRA, focused on autonomy that holds up under degradation and adversarial conditions; Tactical Behaviors for Autonomous Maneuver, targeting autonomous tactical operations; and the Army AI Innovations Institute CRA, ARL's dedicated AI research initiative. ARL frames the whole thing as seeking cutting-edge innovative research across multiple disciplines to produce discoveries benefiting Army capabilities, which in practice means basic and applied research rather than prototype delivery. The eligibility breadth is unusual and worth noting: institutions of higher education, nonprofit organisations, state and local governments, foreign organisations, foreign public entities, and for-profit organisations including both large and small businesses can all submit. Foreign organisation eligibility in particular is rare among DoD research vehicles. Submission runs through Grants.gov.

Digital Health and Sensing Technologies is sponsored by National Institute on Aging (NIA), National Institutes of Health (NIH). This highlighted topic encourages the evaluation of the validity and clinical utility of digital health and artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies in biomedical and behavioral research, specifically relevant to aging and Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (AD…

Digital Health and Artificial Intelligence Tools for Biomedical and Behavioral Research: Validity and Utility is sponsored by National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), National Institutes of Health (NIH). This funding opportunity encourages the evaluation of the validity and clinical utility of digital health and artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies in biomedical and behavioral research.

Digital Health and Artificial Intelligence Tools for Biomedical and Behavioral Research: Validity and Utility is sponsored by National Institutes of Health (NIH) - National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) and other participating ICOs. This highlighted topic encourages the evaluation of the validity and clinical utility of digital health and artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies in biomedical and behavioral research.

Digital Health and Artificial Intelligence Tools for Biomedical and Behavioral Research: Validity and Utility is sponsored by National Institutes of Health (NIH) - Multiple Institutes and Centers (e.g., NICHD, NIMH, NCCIH, NHLBI). This topic encourages evaluation of the validity and clinical utility of digital health and artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies in biomedical and behavioral research.

Advancing Data Science Approaches to Address Health Disparities Through Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning (ML), and Community-Engaged Research is sponsored by Multiple NIH Institutes, Centers, and Offices. This topic supports the development, implementation, and evaluation of community-engaged AI/ML interventions that convert routinely collected clinical and community-linked data into timely actions to improve screening completion, treatment adherence, disease control, and continu…

Advancing Data Science Approaches to Address Health Disparities Through Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning (ML), and Community-Engaged Research is sponsored by National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) / National Institutes of Health (NIH). This program supports the development, implementation, and evaluation of community-engaged AI/ML interventions that convert routinely collected clinical and community-linked data into timely actions to improve screening completion, treatment adherence, disease control, and conti…

Advancing Data Science Approaches to Address Health Disparities Through Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning (ML), and Community-Engaged Research is sponsored by National Institutes of Health (NIH) - National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). This NIH highlighted topic supports the development, implementation, and evaluation of community-engaged AI/ML interventions that use clinical and community-linked data to improve health outcomes and reduce health disparities. This includes solutions-oriented AI/ML interventions in clinical/community settings to improve mental health management in populations experiencing health disparities.

Advancing Data Science Approaches to Address Health Disparities Through Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning (ML), and Community-Engaged Research is sponsored by NIH Institutes, Centers, and Offices (ICOs). This highlighted topic supports the development, implementation, and evaluation of community-engaged AI/ML interventions that convert routinely collected clinical and community-linked data into timely actions to improve screening completion, treatment adherence, disease control,…

Advancing Data Science Approaches to Address Health Disparities Through Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning (ML), and Community-Engaged Research is sponsored by National Institutes of Health (NIH) - Multiple Institutes and Centers (NIMH, NIMHD). This highlighted topic supports the development, implementation, and evaluation of community-engaged AI/ML interventions that convert routinely collected clinical and community-linked data into timely actions to improve screening completion, treatment adherence, disease control,…

Artificial Intelligence and Next Generation Distributed Command and Control (BAA FA8750-23-S-7006) is sponsored by Department of the Air Force, Air Force Materiel Command, AFRL - Rome Research Site. This Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) seeks white papers and proposals for research and development in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and distributed Command and Control (C2) concepts.

Artificial Intelligence Integration Center (AI2C) - Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) is sponsored by U.S. Army Futures Command, Artificial Intelligence Integration Center (AI2C). This BAA seeks white papers and proposals for basic, applied, and advanced research and development in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) across several technical areas, including autonomous platforms, AI/ML algorithms, AI/ML decision support, human-AI integr…