NASA is offering a grant for U.S. universities to conduct advanced research on a new type of rocket engine technology. The goal is to improve the performance of these engines beyond current standards. The grant can last up to five years and provide up to $13 million in funding. Only one proposal is likely to be funded, so it's highly competitive.
Who it's for: This grant is for U.S. institutions of higher education (universities and colleges) that can lead a team of at least three universities. The lead researcher must be a faculty member at the main university.
More details
Likely Disqualifiers
- Non-U.S. institutions
- Proposals not led by a U.S. university
- Teams with fewer than three participating universities
- Proposals not focused on the specified rocket engine technology
What You May Need
- Registration in NSPIRES
- Preliminary proposal submission
- Full proposal (if invited)
- Authorized organizational representative for submission
- Detailed project plan and budget
- Teaming agreements with other universities
Cautions
- Only one award is expected to be made
- Preliminary proposal is mandatory
- Strict deadlines for proposal submissions
- Proposals must be submitted electronically through NSPIRES
Generated from official source details for readability
Eligibility
Eligible Applicant Types
Additional Criteria
Eligible applicants are U.S. institutions of higher education. The lead institution must have a faculty member as the Principal Investigator. The proposal must involve a team of at least three U.S. universities. Teaming with industry and non-profit entities is allowed but must comply with solicitation restrictions.
Overview
This grant is for U.S. institutions of higher education (universities and colleges) that can lead a team of at least three universities. The lead researcher must be a faculty member at the main university.
Likely Disqualifiers
- Non-U.S. institutions
- Proposals not led by a U.S. university
- Teams with fewer than three participating universities
- Proposals not focused on the specified rocket engine technology
Use of Funds
Funds can be used for research and development related to the specified rocket engine technology, including personnel, equipment, and other research-related expenses.
Expected Awards
1
Cost Sharing
Not Required
Important Dates
- Posted
- Oct 5, 2026
- Deadline
- Nov 3, 2026(28 days)
- Archive Date
- Dec 3, 2026
- Est. Award Date (AI estimate)
- May 2027
Application Checklist
- Register in NSPIRES
- Prepare and submit preliminary proposal by November 3, 2026
- Await invitation for full proposal submission
- Prepare full proposal if invited
- Ensure lead researcher is a faculty member at the lead university
- Establish teaming agreements with at least two other universities