Ocean Exploration
Program Funding
Annual program obligations reported to SAM.gov.
Program Objective
To explore the Earth’s largely unknown oceans in all their dimensions for the purpose of discovery and the advancement of knowledge, using state of the art technologies in evolutionary and revolutionary ways within Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR).
Eligibility
Eligible Applicants
- State
- Territorial
- Tribal
- Nonprofit Organization
- For-Profit Organization
- Local
As stated in NOAA special announcements or applicable reports in support of NOAA's mission.
How to Apply
Award Procedure
Proposals are subject to office evaluations, technical reviews, administrative reviews, and external reviews, if applicable, taking into consideration primarily scientific merit and application to the goals of NOAA and the Office of Oceans and Atmospheric Research and NOAA Ocean Exploration.
The range varies from 90 to 180 days from the time of proposal submission to NOAA.
Program details & compliance
Description
NOAA Ocean Exploration is soliciting proposals for ocean exploration-related projects under
two themes: Ocean Exploration and Maritime Heritage. By supporting exploration (i.e.,
examining unknown or poorly understood areas of the seafloor, sub-bottom, or water
column through initial assessments of the physical, chemical, geological, biological,
archaeological, or other characteristics), NOAA Ocean Exploration seeks to advance our
basic understanding of the unknown ocean.
All proposed projects must support priorities in the NOAA Ocean Exploration Strategic Plan
(a link to the Strategic Plan will be provided when available) and should also consider the Strategic Priorities for Ocean Exploration and Characterization of the United States Exclusive Economic Zone (https://oeab.noaa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/NOMEC_OEC_Priorities_Report.pdf). Proposed projects are not restricted to waters under U.S. jurisdiction, but proposals should address how projects will provide national benefit.
Mission Categories
Primary: Research and Development
Use of Funds
Allowed Uses
Cooperative agreements and grants may be used for research and development, education and training, and advisory services. They may also be used for operational systems as they relate to specific programs. Specific restrictions, other than those mandated for grants and cooperative agreements are evaluated on an individual program basis.
Required Documentation
Proposals with statements of work and estimated budgets. Costs will be determined in accordance with applicable OMB Circulars.
Reporting & Compliance
Applicable 2 CFR 200 Subparts
- Subpart B — General Provisions
- Subpart C — Pre-Federal Award Requirements
- Subpart D — Post-Federal Award Requirements
- Subpart E — Cost Principles
- Subpart F — Audit Requirements