NOAA NCCOS Offers Grants for National Competitive Harmful Algal Bloom Programs

The purpose of this document is to advise the public that NOAA/NOS/National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS)/Competitive Research Program (CRP) [formerly Center for Sponsored Coastal Ocean Research (CSCOR)/Coastal Ocean Program (COP)] is soliciting proposals for the Prevention Control and Mitigation of Harmful Algal Bloom (PCMHAB) and Monitoring and Event Response for Harmful Algal Blooms (MERHAB) programs. Funding is contingent upon the availability of Fiscal Year 2023 Federal appropriations. It is anticipated that projects funded under this announcement will have a September 1, 2023 start date. An informational webinar on this solicitation will be offered within approximately two weeks from the publication date of the NOFO. Information regarding this announcement, including webinars and additional background information, is available on the NCCOS funding opportunities website (https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/about/funding-opportunities/).

PCMHAB: It is anticipated that approximately $500,000 may be available in Fiscal Year 2023 for the first year for all PCMHAB projects. If that level of funding becomes available for this program, 2 to 4 targeted projects lasting from 1 to 2 years in duration are expected to be funded. Specific guidelines for approximate budget requests include $125,000-$250,000 per year per proposal. Projects are expected not to exceed 2 years in duration. NCCOS/CRP may reject any PCMHAB proposals submitted with an annual budget that is greater than $250,000 for any year.

MERHAB: It is anticipated that approximately $2,300,000 may be available in Fiscal Year 2023 for the first year for all MERHAB projects. If that level of funding becomes available for this program, 6 to 9 projects lasting from 3 to 5 years in duration are expected to be funded. Specific guidelines for approximate budget requests include $200,000-$300,000 per year for targeted projects and $500,000-$600,000 per year for regional projects. NCCOS/CRP may reject any MERHAB proposals submitted with an annual budget that is greater than $600,000 for any year.

NOAA encourages applicants and awardees to support the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion when writing their proposals and performing their work. NOAA defines diversity as the mixture of the unique attributes that shape an individual’s identity which they bring into the workplace to help NOAA accomplish its goals (1). Diversity refers to demographic diversity (e.g., race, gender, sexual orientation), experiential diversity (e.g., affinities, hobbies, and abilities), and cognitive diversity (e.g., sensory processing and problem solving). Equity is defined as the consistent and systematic fair, just, and impartial treatment of all individuals, including individuals who belong to underserved communities that have been denied such treatment (2,3). NOAA defines Inclusion as a culture that values the unique attributes of all team members. Inclusion is an environment which is respectful, collaborative, supportive, and one that allows for equal access (1). Inclusion requires active and intentional engagement on the part of everyone and provides a feeling of belonging. By promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion NOAA seeks to improve the creativity, productivity, and the vitality of its research community.

The required LOI should be sent by e-mail to nccos.grant.awards@noaa.gov. Full proposals will not be considered if a LOI was not submitted.