The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) is offering a competitive funding opportunity under its Technology Transfer (T2) Program, supported by the Public Transportation Innovation Program. This program aims to promote the early deployment and demonstration of innovative research and technologies in public transportation. A total of $5 million is available for one award, covering activities such as research dissemination, technology deployment, commercialization of federally funded innovations, and addressing barriers to technology adoption in the transit industry. The program also supports the strategic goal of strengthening U.S. manufacturing and small businesses.

Eligible applicants include federal, state, local, and tribal government entities; public transportation providers; nonprofit organizations; institutions of higher education; and technical and community colleges. Applicants must demonstrate experience in deploying research findings, managing national-level programs, and facilitating technology transfer and commercialization. The federal share of the project costs can be up to 100 percent, with matching contributions encouraged but not required.

Applications must be submitted by February 11, 2025, through Grants.gov. Required documents include Standard Forms 424, 424A, and 424B, as well as a project narrative, budget narrative, and data management plan. Proposals must detail methodologies, milestones, and outcomes, with emphasis on addressing challenges in deploying research results. The application will be evaluated on organizational capacity, team expertise, familiarity with public transportation, technical and legal capacity, and proposed methodologies.

The selected recipient will receive a cooperative agreement with substantial involvement from FTA, including input on project goals and deliverables. Recipients must comply with reporting requirements, such as quarterly Federal Financial Reports and data sharing obligations. Additional guidance on compliance with civil rights and disadvantaged business enterprise requirements will also apply.

For assistance, applicants can contact the FTA Office of Research or consult resources provided on the FTA website. The program supports innovative approaches to advancing public transportation technologies while fostering broader adoption of federally funded research.