The Research and Education Program for Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority-Serving Institutions (HBCU/MI), under FOA W911NF24S0009, is a Department of Defense (DoD) initiative designed to enhance defense-related research and education capabilities. Managed by the DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory (ARL), this program aligns with the statutory objective to increase research and educational capacity in areas of importance to national defense, expand the STEM graduate pipeline, and foster collaboration with other institutions, government defense organizations, and the defense industry.

The program supports projects in DoD-critical technology areas, including biotechnology, quantum science, advanced materials, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, hypersonics, and others outlined in the 2022 National Defense Strategy. Eligible applicants are "covered educational institutions," defined as HBCUs, minority-serving institutions (MSIs), and other accredited post-secondary institutions eligible under Title III or Title V of the Higher Education Act. Community colleges and two-year degree-granting institutions are also eligible. Institutions must submit a letter certifying eligibility under Title III or Title V with their application.

Funding is provided via grants or cooperative agreements, depending on the level of federal involvement. Applications are reviewed for scientific merit, alignment with DoD priorities, potential contributions to defense missions, STEM educational enhancement, and cost realism. Collaboration with up to two other institutions of higher education (IHEs) is allowed, and 60% of project costs must benefit the lead applicant institution. Foreign collaborations are prohibited. Cost-sharing is not required and does not influence evaluation.

The application process includes an optional preliminary inquiry to the technical point of contact, Ms. Evelyn Kent, with whitepapers serving as a basis for concept evaluation. Whitepapers are not mandatory but may provide feedback before submitting full proposals. Applications must include detailed project narratives, budgets, personnel qualifications, data management plans, and compliance with specific guidelines outlined in the FOA. Submissions are managed through Grants.gov, and compliance with federal registration systems such as SAM is required.

Applications are accepted continuously until July 31, 2029, and applicants may propose projects reflecting their institution's unique strengths and needs. Awards aim to improve research capabilities, strengthen STEM education, and encourage student involvement. Regular progress and financial reporting are required. For more information, applicants can contact the designated program officers or consult the DEVCOM ARL website for detailed research priorities.