The FY 2025 Opportunity for the Development of Sea Grant Projects, announced by NOAA's National Sea Grant College Program (NSGO), invites applications to support the establishment of new Sea Grant projects in the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) and the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands (CNMI). Approximately $2.4 million in federal funding is available, subject to future appropriations, to fund two projects with a maximum of $1.2 million each over four years. These grants aim to enhance research, education, and extension activities that align with the program’s strategic priorities, addressing critical needs in coastal and Great Lakes communities.

The program's purpose is to support the initial development of Sea Grant projects in eligible regions, focusing on research, extension, or education that directly benefits coastal communities and their resources. This initiative serves as the first step toward achieving full Sea Grant Program status. The projects must be relevant to national focus areas, emphasizing capabilities and needs within USVI or CNMI.

Eligible applicants include institutions of higher education, public and private entities, and tribal or state governments located within the USVI or CNMI. Federal agencies may participate but cannot receive funding. There is a mandatory 50% non-federal match for all requested federal funds, although waivers may be granted for insular areas. Successful applicants must also complete registrations in SAM.gov, Grants.gov, and eRA Commons before submission.

Proposals must include key application elements, such as research and related forms, a detailed project narrative, budget justifications, and a data management plan. The narrative should outline the project’s objectives, methods, anticipated outcomes, and alignment with program goals. Additionally, applications must address diversity, equity, and inclusion principles.

Proposals will be evaluated on their relevance to program goals, technical and scientific merit, applicant qualifications, and realistic budget alignment. Reviews will involve independent experts, and final award recommendations may consider geographic or institutional distribution, prior award performance, and other programmatic factors.

Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov by December 13, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. ET. Projects are expected to begin no earlier than February 1, 2025, and must conclude within four years. Successful projects will operate under cooperative agreements, ensuring collaboration with NOAA throughout their implementation. For additional information or submission assistance, applicants can contact the National Sea Grant Office directly.