The "FY25 Ocean Acidification Coastal Research: Uniting Investigations and Shipboard Experiments (OA CRUISE)" grant opportunity is offered by NOAA’s Ocean Acidification Program (OAP). This program seeks to enhance coastal research related to ocean acidification (OA), with a particular focus on the upcoming East Coast Ocean Acidification Cruise (ECOA-4) scheduled for summer 2026. The purpose of this grant is to fund projects that complement the core observational activities of the cruise, which will study U.S. coastal ecosystems from the Scotian Shelf to Miami. The cruise aims to better understand how ocean acidification impacts marine ecosystems and coastal regions.

Applicants are encouraged to propose projects that build on the core Level 1 activities of the ECOA-4 cruise, expanding observational and experimental capabilities to address priorities outlined in the NOAA Ocean, Coastal, and Great Lakes Research Plan (2020-2029). Funded projects should explore how ocean chemistry changes, the biological responses to these changes, and how such shifts affect marine-dependent communities. Special emphasis is placed on addressing the marine biological carbon pump and regionally significant fisheries.

NOAA anticipates a total funding of approximately $350,000, which will support 1-3 projects, with individual awards ranging from $100,000 to $250,000. Projects may span up to three years, beginning on or around September 1, 2025. Applicants should include pre-cruise planning, field execution, and post-cruise data analysis. While the program does not require cost-sharing, applicants can detail any complementary funding or in-kind support. The funding will be administered through cooperative agreements, ensuring NOAA’s active involvement in project management and coordination.

Eligible applicants include institutions of higher education, nonprofit and for-profit organizations, as well as federal, state, local, and tribal governments. However, foreign institutions cannot be the primary recipients of the award. All applicants must ensure their projects align with the logistical configurations of the ECOA-4 cruise, such as space for equipment, water needs, and sampling requirements. Additionally, the program encourages diversity and outreach efforts that promote inclusion of underrepresented groups in STEM fields.

The application process requires a detailed project narrative, budget justification, and compliance with federal environmental regulations, such as obtaining relevant permits. Applications are due via Grants.gov by January 31, 2025, with the review process taking place in spring 2025. Successful applicants will be notified by June 2025, but they must wait for official award documents before starting their projects.

Applicants should also consider attending an informational webinar on October 25, 2024, to gain more insights into the application process and the goals of the funding opportunity. Additionally, NOAA's Sexual Assault and Harassment prevention training will be mandatory for all cruise participants.