The NOAA’s National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) is offering funding through the 2025 Regional Ecosystem Research (RER) Program. This program seeks to advance research on species' habitat usage and connectivity in and around Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). It aims to provide actionable data to improve management plans for MPAs, with a particular focus on understanding habitat connectivity, species' habitat preferences, and their temporal and spatial habitat use. The outcomes of the research are intended to aid resource managers in conservation efforts, especially those aligned with U.S. and international goals, such as the 30x30 initiative, which seeks to protect 30% of marine and coastal ecosystems by 2030.

The program will fund two projects, each with an annual budget of up to $500,000, not to exceed a total of $2,000,000 over the course of three to four years. Projects must target species of management relevance in MPAs or MPA networks under U.S. jurisdiction, including U.S. territories and the Great Lakes. The use of research findings to address conservation needs and management goals, particularly through engagement with resource managers, is emphasized. Projects that incorporate Indigenous knowledge, local knowledge, and collaborative efforts with Indigenous peoples are encouraged. Proposals must address species connectivity, the sufficiency of MPA boundaries, and the pressures affecting species movement and habitat use. Additionally, the program supports efforts to understand the spillover effects of MPAs on surrounding areas.

Eligible applicants include U.S. institutions of higher education, non-profits, state and local governments, tribal governments, U.S. territories, and for-profit organizations. Federal researchers may participate as collaborators but are not eligible to be the lead applicant. Proposals must include a detailed plan for how research results will be transferred to end users and integrated into MPA management plans, with a focus on the practical application of the findings. The deadline for submitting a full proposal is January 23, 2025, and proposals must be submitted via Grants.gov.

To apply, proposals must include several elements, such as a project abstract, description, budget, and biographical sketches of key personnel. A data management plan and an equitable science and service delivery plan are also required. Successful proposals will be evaluated based on their relevance to program goals, technical merit, qualifications of the applicants, budget realism, and the outreach and education plan. Awards are expected to be announced by September 2025, with projects starting on or after September 1, 2025.

For further information, applicants are encouraged to participate in an informational webinar scheduled for October 22, 2024. This webinar will provide additional guidance and clarify the application process.