The UNLOCK SBIR/STTR grant is designed to support innovative research and development projects that aim to improve the extraction and efficiency of subsurface resources like oil, gas, geothermal energy, and minerals. The goal is to overcome technical challenges related to low permeability and resource access in complex geological formations. This grant is part of the Advanced Research Projects Agency – Energy's efforts to fund transformative energy technologies that could disrupt the market.
Who it's for: This grant is for individuals who are interested in developing new technologies that can enhance the extraction and efficiency of subsurface resources. Applicants should have a focus on innovative solutions that address challenges in oil, gas, geothermal energy, and mineral extraction.
More details
Likely Disqualifiers
- Submitting applications through means other than DOE eXCHANGE
- Proposing projects that do not align with the transformative goals of ARPA-E
- Lack of registration with DOE eXCHANGE
- Proposing basic research instead of applied R&D
- Failure to demonstrate potential for market disruption
What You May Need
- Registration with DOE eXCHANGE
- Completed application form
- Detailed project proposal
- Proof of concept or demonstration of technology
- Budget and funding request
- Risk management plan
- Timeline for project milestones
- Letters of support or collaboration (if applicable)
- Technical and financial capability documentation
Cautions
- Ensure all applications are submitted through DOE eXCHANGE
- Focus on transformative, not incremental, technology improvements
- Be prepared to manage high-risk technology projects
- Understand the specific technical challenges of subsurface resource extraction
Generated from official source details for readability
Eligibility
Eligible Applicant Types
Additional Criteria
Eligible applicants for this grant are individuals who are capable of conducting research and development projects focused on subsurface resources. This includes those with expertise in oil, gas, geothermal energy, and mineral extraction technologies. Applicants should be able to propose projects that align with ARPA-E's goals of transformative and disruptive technology development.
Overview
This grant is for individuals who are interested in developing new technologies that can enhance the extraction and efficiency of subsurface resources. Applicants should have a focus on innovative solutions that address challenges in oil, gas, geothermal energy, and mineral extraction.
Likely Disqualifiers
- Submitting applications through means other than DOE eXCHANGE
- Proposing projects that do not align with the transformative goals of ARPA-E
- Lack of registration with DOE eXCHANGE
- Proposing basic research instead of applied R&D
- Failure to demonstrate potential for market disruption
Use of Funds
Funds from this grant can be used for research and development activities that aim to create new technologies for improving subsurface resource extraction. This includes developing methods to enhance permeability, fracture conductivity, and resource recovery efficiency. The funds are intended to support projects with high technology risk and potential for significant market impact.
Total Program Funding
$45,000,000
Expected Awards
12
Cost Sharing
Not Required
Important Dates
- Posted
- Oct 21, 2026
- Deadline
- Nov 20, 2026(29 days)
- Archive Date
- May 20, 2027
Application Checklist
- Register with DOE eXCHANGE
- Download and review the NOFO from DOE eXCHANGE
- Prepare a detailed project proposal addressing technical challenges
- Develop a budget and funding request
- Outline a risk management and mitigation plan
- Submit the application through DOE eXCHANGE by the deadline