FY 2026 Implementation of the U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS)
Grant Opportunity Analysis
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is inviting proposals for the Fiscal Year 2026 to implement the U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) through cooperative agreements aimed at enhancing regional efforts in understanding coastal and Great Lakes environments. The initiative seeks to support the development of a sustained Regional Coastal Observing System (RCOS) across five key subsystems: Governance and Management, Observing, Data Management and Cyberinfrastructure, Modeling and Analysis, and Engagement, with an emphasis on integrating existing investments and addressing societal needs. This funding opportunity is critical for advancing the nation’s capacity to manage and utilize ocean and coastal data effectively. Eligible applicants include institutions of higher education, non-profit and for-profit organizations, and state, local, and tribal governments, with awards ranging from $2 million to $5 million per year, totaling an estimated $275 million across 11 awards. Proposals are due by April 13, 2026, and interested parties can contact Harvey Kincaid at harvey.kincaid@noaa.gov for further information.
Eligible Applicants
Eligible funding applicants for this competition are institutions of higher education, non-profit and for-profit organizations, and state, local and tribal governments. Federal agencies or institutions and foreign governments may not be the primary recipient of awards under this announcement, but they may partner with applicants when appropriate. If an applicant has a partner who would receive funds, the lead grantee will be expected to use a subcontract or other appropriate mechanism to provide funds to the partner. If a partner is a NOAA office or laboratory, the U.S. IOOS Office will transfer funds internally. If the proposal includes a federal agency outside of NOAA, the applicant must plan its own mechanism to fund that partner. The U.S. IOOS Office will not transfer funds to any other agencies on behalf of an awardee. Applicants should note that paying for transportation, travel, or other expenses for any federal employee are not allowable costs. This includes federal employees who may serve as board members on applicant governance structures.