The UNLOCK grant is designed to fund innovative research and development projects that aim to improve the extraction and recovery efficiency of subsurface resources like oil, gas, geothermal energy, and minerals. The focus is on overcoming technical challenges related to low permeability and inefficient resource mobility in complex geological formations. Successful projects will propose transformative approaches that could significantly enhance resource recovery and potentially disrupt existing market technologies.
Who it's for: This grant is for organizations and researchers working on advanced energy technologies, particularly those focused on subsurface resource extraction. Ideal applicants are those with projects that involve high-risk, high-reward research and development aimed at creating new methods for improving recovery efficiency in oil, gas, geothermal, and mineral systems.
More details
Likely Disqualifiers
- Submitting applications through means other than DOE eXCHANGE
- Proposing projects that focus on basic research rather than applied R&D
- Lack of cost-sharing or matching funds
- Projects that do not address the specific technical challenges outlined in the NOFO
What You May Need
- Registration with DOE eXCHANGE
- Detailed project proposal addressing technical challenges
- Proof of concept or preliminary research data
- Cost-sharing or matching fund documentation
- Project management and risk mitigation plans
- Letters of support or collaboration agreements
Cautions
- Ensure all application materials are submitted through DOE eXCHANGE
- Carefully review the NOFO for specific technical challenges and requirements
- Be prepared for a competitive selection process with a focus on high-risk projects
Generated from official source details for readability
Eligibility
Eligible Applicant Types
Additional Criteria
Eligible applicants include organizations and researchers involved in advanced energy technology development, specifically those focusing on subsurface resource extraction. The grant is open to entities that can propose high-risk, transformative research projects aimed at improving recovery efficiency in oil, gas, geothermal, and mineral systems. Applicants must be able to provide cost-sharing or matching funds as part of their proposal.
Overview
This grant is for organizations and researchers working on advanced energy technologies, particularly those focused on subsurface resource extraction. Ideal applicants are those with projects that involve high-risk, high-reward research and development aimed at creating new methods for improving recovery efficiency in oil, gas, geothermal, and mineral systems.
Likely Disqualifiers
- Submitting applications through means other than DOE eXCHANGE
- Proposing projects that focus on basic research rather than applied R&D
- Lack of cost-sharing or matching funds
- Projects that do not address the specific technical challenges outlined in the NOFO
Use of Funds
Funds can be used for applied research and development activities that address the technical challenges of subsurface resource extraction. This includes developing new technologies or methods to enhance recovery efficiency, manage water resources, and improve fracture conductivity and propagation.
Total Program Funding
$45,000,000
Expected Awards
12
Cost Sharing
Required
Important Dates
- Posted
- Oct 21, 2026
- Deadline
- Nov 20, 2026(29 days)
- Archive Date
- May 20, 2027
Application Checklist
- Register on DOE eXCHANGE
- Download and review the full NOFO
- Prepare a detailed project proposal
- Gather cost-sharing documentation
- Develop a risk management plan
- Submit application through DOE eXCHANGE by the deadline