FAA Aviation Research Grants Program
Description
The FAA hereby announces its continuing interest in receiving applications for aviation research grants and cooperative agreements to pursue the long-term growth and short-term technical needs of civil aviation, under this funding opportunity. Eligibility of applicants for the award of an aviation research grant varies depending on the nature of the proposer's organization, as well as the character of the research being proposed. In general, colleges, universities, and other non- profit research institutions under Section 501(c)(3) of Title 26 of United States Code, are eligible to apply for an aviation research grant. The FAA Aviation Research Grants Program encourages and supports innovative, advanced research of potential benefit to the long-term growth of civil aviation and commercial space transportation. The pursuit of basic and applied research in scientific and engineering disciplines that have the potential to further knowledge and understanding on a broad front of emerging technologies is crucial to the realization of this goal. The intent is to encourage applied research and development to enhance technology assimilation, transfer, and development in the FAA. The FAA Aviation Research Grants Program does not require the immediate application to Research and Development (R&D) programs, although this may occur in some cases. The FAA encourages the submission of proposals that embrace the entire spectrum of physical, chemical, biological, medical, psychological, mathematical, and engineering sciences. The following list illustrates topics of interest to those who may consider applying for a grant under this funding opportunity: 1. Capacity and Air Traffic Control Technology 2. Communications, Navigation, and Surveillance 3. Aviation Weather 4. Airports 5. Aircraft Safety Technology 6. Human Factors and Aviation Medicine 7. Systems Science/Operations Research For more information, please carefully review FAA Notice of Funding Opportunity 20-01, and any supporting attachments.
Eligibility
See official grant page for eligibility requirements
Industry Tags
About This Grant
The FAA hereby announces its continuing interest in receiving applications for aviation research grants and cooperative agreements to pursue the long-term growth and short-term technical needs of civil aviation, under this funding opportunity. Eligibility of applicants for the award of an aviation research grant varies depending on the nature of the proposer's organization, as well as the character of the research being proposed. In general, colleges, universities, and other non- profit research institutions under Section 501(c)(3) of Title 26 of United States Code, are eligible to apply for an aviation research grant. The FAA Aviation Research Grants Program encourages and supports innovative, advanced research of potential benefit to the long-term growth of civil aviation and commercial space transportation. The pursuit of basic and applied research in scientific and engineering disciplines that have the potential to further knowledge and understanding on a broad front of emerging technologies is crucial to the realization of this goal. The intent is to encourage applied research and development to enhance technology assimilation, transfer, and development in the FAA. The FAA Aviation Research Grants Program does not require the immediate application to Research and Development (R&D) programs, although this may occur in some cases. The FAA encourages the submission of proposals that embrace the entire spectrum of physical, chemical, biological, medical, psychological, mathematical, and engineering sciences. The following list illustrates topics of interest to those who may consider applying for a grant under this funding opportunity: 1. Capacity and Air Traffic Control Technology 2. Communications, Navigation, and Surveillance 3. Aviation Weather 4. Airports 5. Aircraft Safety Technology 6. Human Factors and Aviation Medicine 7. Systems Science/Operations Research For more information, please carefully review FAA Notice of Funding Opportunity 20-01, and any supporting attachments.
Funding Information
- Award Ceiling
- $6,000,000
Eligibility Overview
This opportunity from DOT - FAA Aviation Research Grants is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Research are especially encouraged to review the requirements.
Federal grant opportunities like this one are typically open to a range of applicant types. Common eligible organizations include:
- Nonprofits and 501(c)(3) organizations
- Small businesses and startups (especially for SBIR/STTR programs)
- State, local, and tribal governments
- Colleges, universities, and research institutions
- Individuals (for select programs in education, arts, and research)
Eligibility requirements vary by opportunity. Always review the official listing before investing time in an application.
How to Apply
- 1
Review the full opportunity
Read the complete Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for this DOT - FAA Aviation Research Grants program on its official page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/328902).
- 2
Confirm eligibility
Check that your organization meets every requirement set by DOT - FAA Aviation Research Grants — applicant type, location, registration status, and any prior-award restrictions.
- 3
Prepare required documents
Gather your budget narrative, needs statement, organizational details, SAM.gov registration, and any required certifications.
- 4
Submit before the deadline
This opportunity closes on September 7, 2027. Submit at least 48 hours early — portal systems are often slow near closing time.
Grant Writing Tips
Proposals for research programs such as those from DOT - FAA Aviation Research Grants are competitive — these tips can strengthen your application:
- ✓Start your application at least 4 weeks before the deadline — rushed proposals score lower.
- ✓Tailor your needs statement to match the funder's stated priorities, using their exact language where possible.
- ✓Have a colleague outside your team review your budget narrative before submitting — fresh eyes catch errors reviewers penalize.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for FAA Aviation Research Grants Program?
This opportunity from DOT - FAA Aviation Research Grants is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Research are especially encouraged to review the requirements. Always confirm the full eligibility criteria on the official listing before applying.
How much funding does FAA Aviation Research Grants Program provide?
FAA Aviation Research Grants Program provides awards of up to $6,000,000.
When is the deadline for FAA Aviation Research Grants Program?
The application deadline for FAA Aviation Research Grants Program is September 7, 2027. Submit at least 48 hours early to avoid last-minute portal issues.
How do I apply for FAA Aviation Research Grants Program?
Apply for FAA Aviation Research Grants Program through the official grant page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/328902). Confirm your eligibility and prepare your application materials before the deadline.
Helpful Resources
Need help writing your grant application?
Try Instrumentl — Grant Writing Software →Starting a nonprofit to apply for grants?
Launch your nonprofit with Swyft Filings →GrantLocate may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. This does not affect our grant listings.