The IIJA/IRA Bureau of Land Management Alaska Good Neighbor Authority (GNA) program supports projects that restore ecosystems, manage wildfire fuels, and improve water resources. These projects align with the Department of Interior and Biden Administration priorities, including addressing climate change, advancing equity, and supporting economic relief efforts. GNA facilitates partnerships between the BLM and state, county, or tribal governments to implement restoration projects on federal and non-federal lands, provided they benefit BLM-managed lands.

The program offers a total funding pool of $850,000, with individual awards ranging from $10,000 to $400,000. A maximum of five awards is anticipated. Eligible applicants are limited to state, county, and federally recognized tribal governments. Projects may include noxious weed treatments, fuels management, community assistance, rangeland restoration, riparian restoration, and targeted grazing. Activities like enhancing habitat connectivity and wildlife migration corridors are also supported.

Applications must include forms such as SF-424, SF-424A, and a project narrative detailing goals, methodologies, and expected outcomes. The narrative should outline the public benefits, environmental compliance plans, and stakeholder engagement strategies. A detailed budget narrative must also justify all costs. Applicants must be registered with SAM.gov and Grants.gov, a process that can take several months, and adhere to federal application standards.

The application deadline is March 17, 2025. Submissions will be reviewed for eligibility and merit, with criteria including technical approach, public benefit, and applicant qualifications. Priority will be given to projects demonstrating innovative solutions and effective resource leveraging. Applications must clearly align with BLM and federal objectives and show how they meet Good Neighbor Authority priorities.

Award notifications are expected in late 2025, with projects commencing on September 1, 2025, and ending no later than August 31, 2030. Post-award requirements include financial and performance reporting, compliance with geospatial data standards, and adherence to Buy America provisions for infrastructure projects. Successful projects will address critical ecological challenges and demonstrate measurable environmental and community benefits.