FY26 Bus Safety, Accessibility, and Innovation Notice of Funding Opportunity
Description
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announces the opportunity to apply for competitive awards totaling up to $10 million in Public Transportation Innovation Program (49 U.S.C. 5312) funds for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Bus Safety, Accessibility, and Innovation Research Program under Assistance Listing Number 20.530. As required by Federal public transportation law, funds will be awarded competitively to up to two projects to develop and prototype innovative and widely deployable concepts that are intended to make existing and new buses safer for their operators and vulnerable road users, and safer and more accessible for their passengers.
Eligibility
See official grant page for eligibility requirements
Industry Tags
About This Grant
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announces the opportunity to apply for competitive awards totaling up to $10 million in Public Transportation Innovation Program (49 U.S.C. 5312) funds for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Bus Safety, Accessibility, and Innovation Research Program under Assistance Listing Number 20.530. As required by Federal public transportation law, funds will be awarded competitively to up to two projects to develop and prototype innovative and widely deployable concepts that are intended to make existing and new buses safer for their operators and vulnerable road users, and safer and more accessible for their passengers.
Funding Information
- Award Ceiling
- $10,000,000
- Estimated Total Program Funding
- $10,000,000
- Expected Number of Awards
- 2
Eligibility Overview
This opportunity from DOT - Federal Transit Administration is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Federal 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 - Federal Transit Administration program on its official page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/363372).
- 2
Confirm eligibility
Check that your organization meets every requirement set by DOT - Federal Transit Administration — 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 28, 2026. Submit at least 48 hours early — portal systems are often slow near closing time.
Grant Writing Tips
Proposals for federal programs such as those from DOT - Federal Transit Administration 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.
More Grants from DOT - Federal Transit Administration
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for FY26 Bus Safety, Accessibility, and Innovation Notice of Funding Opportunity?
This opportunity from DOT - Federal Transit Administration is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Federal are especially encouraged to review the requirements. Always confirm the full eligibility criteria on the official listing before applying.
How much funding does FY26 Bus Safety, Accessibility, and Innovation Notice of Funding Opportunity provide?
FY26 Bus Safety, Accessibility, and Innovation Notice of Funding Opportunity provides awards of up to $10,000,000.
When is the deadline for FY26 Bus Safety, Accessibility, and Innovation Notice of Funding Opportunity?
The application deadline for FY26 Bus Safety, Accessibility, and Innovation Notice of Funding Opportunity is September 28, 2026. Submit at least 48 hours early to avoid last-minute portal issues.
How do I apply for FY26 Bus Safety, Accessibility, and Innovation Notice of Funding Opportunity?
Apply for FY26 Bus Safety, Accessibility, and Innovation Notice of Funding Opportunity through the official grant page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/363372). Confirm your eligibility and prepare your application materials before the deadline.
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