The Circular Supply Chains Accelerator aims to advance the development of innovative circular economy solutions, emphasizing supply chain sustainability. This initiative supports projects that reduce waste, enhance resource efficiency, and develop technologies promoting material reuse and recycling across industries. The program is aligned with DOE’s objectives to reduce environmental impacts, improve manufacturing competitiveness, and increase economic benefits for communities. The funding opportunity also incorporates goals related to equity, inclusion, and workforce development through community partnerships.

Funding is available for projects focused on various aspects of circular supply chains, including advanced manufacturing technologies, recycling methods, and infrastructure to support sustainable material management. Projects may address challenges in materials science, recycling innovation, supply chain logistics, and more. Successful applications are expected to demonstrate technical feasibility, economic impact, and alignment with DOE’s energy efficiency and sustainability goals. Specific funding levels and cost-sharing requirements are detailed in the funding announcement, with a minimum cost-share requirement of 20% for most projects.

Eligibility is broad but includes specific criteria for applicants such as U.S.-based businesses, academic institutions, national laboratories, and non-profit organizations. Foreign entities may apply but must meet additional requirements, such as demonstrating contributions to U.S. economic and technological interests. Applications must include letters of commitment from subrecipients or partners and documentation of community and labor engagement.

Key application components include a detailed technical volume describing the project’s objectives, budget justification, and a Community Benefits Plan. The plan should outline actions to create quality jobs, promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and deliver benefits to disadvantaged communities, particularly in line with the Justice40 Initiative. Supporting documentation, such as letters of commitment from community partners and resumes of key personnel, is also required.

Evaluation criteria emphasize technical merit, innovation, project feasibility, and potential to achieve program goals. Additional points are awarded for demonstrating community benefits and equity impacts. Applications must comply with formatting and content guidelines outlined in the funding notice and include a completed SF-424 form, budget justifications, and technical work plans.

The submission process involves multiple registration steps, including registering in SAM.gov, obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), and using the DOE eXCHANGE portal for application submission. Deadlines for submission are strictly enforced, with pre-application requirements such as a concept paper submission in some cases. Applicants are advised to begin the registration process early due to potential delays in approvals.

Finally, applicants selected for funding will enter negotiations with DOE to finalize project terms, budgets, and other requirements. Post-award expectations include reporting on project progress, compliance with federal requirements, and achieving milestones outlined in the application.