The Inspiring Generations of New Innovators to Impact Technologies in Energy (IGNIITE) 2025 program, administered by ARPA-E, is designed to empower early-career innovators to transform unconventional and disruptive ideas into impactful technologies across various energy sectors. This initiative aims to address pressing energy-related challenges while fostering the growth of independent researchers. The program also features mentorship activities, dedicated meetings, and events to strengthen the technological leadership of the United States in advanced energy development and deployment. With approximately $10 million in funding, the program anticipates awarding federal shares of up to $500,000 per project, depending on the availability of funds.

Eligible applicants include early-career Principal Investigators (PIs) who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or individuals who have applied for a Green Card. PIs must have obtained a Ph.D. within the past eight years, with allowances for certain leaves. They must be employed by an eligible entity, such as a for-profit organization, educational institution, DOE/NNSA laboratory, or nonprofit incorporated in the U.S. For academic institutions, the PI must be a tenure-track assistant or associate professor. Proposals involving co-PIs or oversight by senior personnel are not eligible. Applicants from countries of concern are subject to additional scrutiny, and foreign national participation requires prior approval.

Funding can be used for research and development, including necessary project-related costs such as personnel, equipment, and materials. However, ARPA-E typically does not cover major construction or foreign travel unless explicitly approved. Projects must comply with federal cost principles and perform most activities within the United States unless granted a waiver.

Submissions require several components, including a Concept Paper, Technical Volume, Budget Justification Workbook, and supplementary materials like a summary slide and business assurances form. The Concept Paper must not exceed six pages and should include technical content and a personal qualification summary. Full Applications, to be invited after initial review, must adhere to prescribed formats and provide detailed plans for execution, metrics of success, and anticipated outcomes. Deadlines for submissions include November 15, 2024, for Concept Papers and March 7, 2025, for Full Applications.

Applications are evaluated based on their alignment with program objectives, the innovativeness of the proposed technology, feasibility, and potential impact. Proposals deemed non-responsive, such as those lacking transformational elements or failing to address specific requirements, may not advance to the merit review stage. Additionally, applicants have the opportunity to respond to reviewer comments before final decisions are made.

Key deadlines include January 27, 2025, for notifications of invitation to submit Full Applications, and April 3, 2025, for responses to reviewer comments. Awards are expected to be announced by June 2025, with a project period lasting until June 2027. For detailed guidance and templates, applicants are advised to visit the ARPA-E eXCHANGE platform.