Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Department of the Navy (DoN) Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Minority Institutions (HBCU/MI) Program
Description
Key programmatic objectives of the DoN HBCU/MI Program are achieved through the implementation and performance of three program goals: • enhancing the research and educational capabilities of HBCU/MIs in scientific and engineering disciplines critical to the defense mission of the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps, • encouraging cross-institutional, collaborative efforts that explore innovative solutions to naval science and technology (S&T) challenges, and • increasing the engagement of students in STEM fields important to the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps. This particular NOFO aims to enhance the research capacity and research infrastructure for HBCU/MIs. Competitive white papers and invited full proposals submitted to this NOFO must clearly and succinctly describe efforts that advance basic naval-relevant S&T, engage faculty and students in STEM discovery, and expand the research capacity of participant institutions. This announcement is only for research efforts that also promote student/faculty engagement, and expand the institution’s research capacity. This announcement is not intended for projects that focus on non-research STEM activities. The technical content of any proposed effort must contribute to the S&T mission and vision of the DoN. Deadlines White Paper Inquiries and Questions-Email: don_hbcufoa@navy.mil 09 September 2026 (Wednesday) White Papers must be received no later than 18 September 2026 (Friday) at 5:00 PM Eastern Time Application Inquiries and Questions 04 December 2026 (Friday)
Eligibility
See official grant page for eligibility requirements
Industry Tags
About This Grant
Key programmatic objectives of the DoN HBCU/MI Program are achieved through the implementation and performance of three program goals: • enhancing the research and educational capabilities of HBCU/MIs in scientific and engineering disciplines critical to the defense mission of the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps, • encouraging cross-institutional, collaborative efforts that explore innovative solutions to naval science and technology (S&T) challenges, and • increasing the engagement of students in STEM fields important to the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps. This particular NOFO aims to enhance the research capacity and research infrastructure for HBCU/MIs. Competitive white papers and invited full proposals submitted to this NOFO must clearly and succinctly describe efforts that advance basic naval-relevant S&T, engage faculty and students in STEM discovery, and expand the research capacity of participant institutions. This announcement is only for research efforts that also promote student/faculty engagement, and expand the institution’s research capacity. This announcement is not intended for projects that focus on non-research STEM activities. The technical content of any proposed effort must contribute to the S&T mission and vision of the DoN. Deadlines White Paper Inquiries and Questions-Email: don_hbcufoa@navy.mil 09 September 2026 (Wednesday) White Papers must be received no later than 18 September 2026 (Friday) at 5:00 PM Eastern Time Application Inquiries and Questions 04 December 2026 (Friday)
Funding Information
- Award Ceiling
- $525,000
- Award Floor
- $450,000
- Estimated Total Program Funding
- $1,575,000
- Expected Number of Awards
- 3
Eligibility Overview
This opportunity from Office of Naval Research 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 Office of Naval Research program on its official page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/362871).
- 2
Confirm eligibility
Check that your organization meets every requirement set by Office of Naval Research — 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 December 11, 2026. 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 Office of Naval Research 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Department of the Navy (DoN) Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Minority Institutions (HBCU/MI) Program?
This opportunity from Office of Naval Research 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 Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Department of the Navy (DoN) Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Minority Institutions (HBCU/MI) Program provide?
Award amounts for Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Department of the Navy (DoN) Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Minority Institutions (HBCU/MI) Program range from $450,000 to $525,000.
When is the deadline for Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Department of the Navy (DoN) Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Minority Institutions (HBCU/MI) Program?
The application deadline for Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Department of the Navy (DoN) Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Minority Institutions (HBCU/MI) Program is December 11, 2026. Submit at least 48 hours early to avoid last-minute portal issues.
How do I apply for Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Department of the Navy (DoN) Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Minority Institutions (HBCU/MI) Program?
Apply for Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Department of the Navy (DoN) Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Minority Institutions (HBCU/MI) Program through the official grant page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/362871). Confirm your eligibility and prepare your application materials before the deadline.
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