The NOAA Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) has announced its "FY 2024 – 2026 Broad Agency Announcement" (BAA) under Funding Opportunity Number NOAA-OAR-CPO-2024-28363. This BAA is a rolling opportunity open until September 30, 2026, aimed at supporting research, innovative projects, and educational outreach that aligns with NOAA’s mission and strategic goals. Applicants from various sectors, including educational institutions, nonprofits, and commercial organizations, are invited to submit proposals that address areas such as ocean exploration, climate adaptation, and mitigation, weather readiness, healthy oceans, and resilient coastal communities.

The BAA encourages interdisciplinary projects that are not covered by existing competitive programs. NOAA’s focus areas include ocean exploration, climate change impacts, weather-related events, biodiversity, and the sustainability of coastal communities. Proposals may address any of these long-term goals, and applicants are encouraged to consider their project's broader relevance to NOAA’s mission.

Funding is contingent on appropriations and the availability of resources for specific projects. Proposals are evaluated based on their scientific merit, relevance to NOAA’s goals, the qualifications of the applicants, and the proposed project’s cost. Special attention will also be given to projects that provide effective educational outreach and foster public understanding of NOAA’s work.

Applications should be submitted electronically via Grants.gov and will be evaluated within three to six months of receipt. NOAA will issue grants or cooperative agreements depending on the level of federal involvement in the project. Eligible applicants include U.S. institutions of higher education, nonprofits, commercial entities, and government organizations. Federal entities seeking funds should use the interagency agreement process instead of applying through this BAA.

Proposals must follow specific formatting guidelines, and applicants are required to include a project synopsis, description, budget justification, and a data management plan where applicable. NOAA emphasizes the importance of data sharing and environmental compliance, and successful applicants must adhere to federal policies, including those related to data accessibility and environmental impact assessments.

This funding opportunity provides a flexible mechanism for NOAA to advance its mission by supporting diverse research, innovative projects, and educational initiatives across multiple sectors.