Authority to Accept Unsolicited Proposals for Research Partnerships Notice of Intent (NOI)

The Authority to Accept Unsolicited Proposals for Research Partnerships Notice of Intent is a federal funding opportunity administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development through its Office of Policy Development and Research. This initiative is designed to encourage the submission of independent, unsolicited research proposals that align with HUD’s strategic priorities in housing and community development. Unlike traditional competitive grant programs with fixed scopes, this opportunity allows applicants to propose original research ideas that address critical housing challenges and contribute to evidence-based policymaking. The primary objective of this program is to support high-quality research that generates reliable evidence and actionable insights for improving housing policy and program effectiveness. HUD seeks proposals that align with its research priorities, which include housing affordability, homelessness, industrialized housing production, Opportunity Zones, and broader issues related to work, family stability, and housing outcomes. Projects must be grounded in rigorous methodologies and adhere to principles of Gold Standard Science to ensure validity, reproducibility, and policy relevance. A defining feature of this funding opportunity is its flexibility in proposal submission. Applicants may submit proposals at any time prior to the expiration of the notice, and HUD will review submissions on a rolling basis. This structure allows for continuous engagement and supports the timely development of research projects that respond to emerging housing challenges. However, applicants must submit complete and well-developed research plans that clearly demonstrate alignment with program goals and methodological rigor. Funding for this program is provided through cooperative agreements, which means HUD will maintain an active role throughout the research process. This includes providing technical guidance, ensuring alignment with departmental priorities, and supporting the dissemination of findings. The total estimated funding for the program is $2 million, with approximately eight awards anticipated. Although specific award amounts are not defined in the forecast notice, funding will be allocated based on the scope and quality of proposed research projects. A significant requirement of this program is the matching funds provision. Applicants must contribute at least 50 percent of the total project cost through non-federal sources. This requirement ensures shared investment in the research and encourages collaboration among public, private, and philanthropic entities. Additionally, the program explicitly prohibits the inclusion of profit in project budgets, reinforcing its focus on research and public benefit rather than commercial gain. Eligibility for this opportunity is broad and includes philanthropic entities, federal agencies, state and local governments, Indian tribes, tribally designated housing entities, and institutions of higher education. Nonprofit organizations must demonstrate their status and provide documentation confirming their role in funding research or charitable activities. Individuals, foreign entities, and sole proprietorships are not eligible to apply. Faith-based organizations are permitted to apply under the same conditions as other eligible entities. The application timeline spans nearly one year, with the estimated posting date in May 2026 and the application deadline in May 2027. Awards are expected to be announced shortly after the deadline, with project activities beginning in mid-May 2027. HUD will evaluate proposals as they are received, allowing for a dynamic and responsive funding process. This opportunity is not identified as recurring but functions as a time-limited notice inviting innovative research partnerships that can inform future housing policy and program development.