The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Coral Reef Conservation Program (CRCP) is offering funding to establish two Reef Research Coordination Institutes (RRCIs) through cooperative agreements. These institutes, designated as the Atlantic Reef Research Coordination Institute and the Pacific Reef Research Coordination Institute, will support research, restoration, and management of shallow-water coral reef ecosystems across U.S. states and territories. This NOFO outlines a five-year initial performance period, with a potential renewal for another five years based on program success and available funding. Only applicants previously designated as Coral Reef Research Centers (CRRC) are eligible to apply.

The RRCIs will focus on three key areas: research, monitoring, and capacity building within their respective oceanic basins. Objectives include filling coral reef ecosystem research gaps, enhancing ecological monitoring, and supporting jurisdictional capacity through training, public education, and partnership-building with federal and local entities. RRCIs will also assist with national and regional strategies for coral reef resilience, engage in public outreach, and help translate scientific findings into actionable management practices.

NOAA anticipates a funding ceiling of $4.5 million annually, with the total funding for each institute over the five-year period potentially reaching $22.5 million. Applicants may apply for the full amount but will be awarded based on project alignment with CRCP objectives, the quality of the proposed activities, and demonstrated progress toward research and capacity-building goals. Institutions eligible for these funds include U.S. higher education and nonprofit organizations designated as CRRCs. Cost-sharing is not required, though voluntary contributions are encouraged.

Applications are due by January 31, 2025, and must be submitted through Grants.gov. A complete application includes a project narrative, budget, and detailed descriptions of the RRCI’s qualifications, proposed activities, and expected outcomes. Specific forms, such as the SF-424 series and a Data Management Plan, must also be completed. To address NOAA’s commitment to inclusivity, applicants are required to demonstrate how their programs will engage underrepresented groups. Furthermore, applicants must complete registrations with SAM.gov, Grants.gov, and eRA Commons prior to submission, a process that can take several weeks.

NOAA will evaluate applications based on their alignment with program goals, technical merit, applicant qualifications, project costs, and outreach plans. Applications will undergo a merit-based review and may be scored by a panel of experts. Funding decisions will also consider factors like geographic balance, project type, and applicant performance history. Selected applicants may be required to adjust project scope, budgets, and work plans before finalizing awards.

For assistance, NOAA will hold a webinar on November 6, 2024, and applicants may submit questions to NOAA’s Coral Reef Conservation Program until the deadline. Successful applicants will be notified by NOAA but will only receive formal confirmation after approval by the Grants Officer, at which point project activities can officially commence.