Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Department of the Navy (DoN) Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Minority Institutions (HBCU/MI) Program

The Department of the Navy Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Minority Institutions Program is administered by the Office of Naval Research to strengthen the research capacity and participation of eligible institutions in naval science and technology efforts. The program is rooted in the broader mission of the Department of Defense to expand research, development, test, and evaluation capabilities while fostering innovation in areas critical to national defense. It specifically targets institutions that qualify under federal definitions of covered educational institutions, including those eligible under Title III or V of the Higher Education Act and accredited minority-serving institutions. The program emphasizes advancing both basic and applied research aligned with naval priorities. The primary objective of this funding opportunity is to enhance the research infrastructure and capabilities of eligible institutions while increasing participation in STEM disciplines relevant to the Navy and Marine Corps. The program supports projects that demonstrate a clear connection to naval science and technology challenges and that actively involve students and faculty in research activities. A strong emphasis is placed on developing innovative solutions that can transition into practical applications for naval operations, thereby contributing to the readiness and effectiveness of military forces. Funding under this opportunity is structured to support research projects over a period of up to three years. Individual awards are anticipated to range between 450000 and 525000 dollars, with a total program funding allocation of approximately 1575000 dollars. Annual funding is capped with specific allocations for base research and additional allowances for materials, equipment, and supplies. These funding parameters are designed to ensure sustained support for research activities while maintaining accountability and alignment with program goals. Cost sharing is not required and is not a factor in the evaluation process, though voluntary contributions may be considered. Eligibility is restricted to covered educational institutions as defined by federal statute, and applicants must meet strict requirements regarding personnel qualifications. The principal investigator must be a United States citizen and hold a full-time academic appointment at an eligible institution. The program operates as a single principal investigator award, prohibiting co-principal investigators and subawards. These restrictions are intended to ensure focused project leadership and institutional accountability. The application process involves a mandatory white paper submission followed by an invitation-only full proposal stage. White papers must outline the proposed research concept, technical approach, student engagement strategy, and anticipated naval relevance. Applicants are strongly encouraged to engage with Navy technical points of contact prior to submission to ensure alignment with program priorities. Full proposals require detailed technical narratives, budget justifications, and compliance with federal application standards through Grants.gov. Applications are evaluated based on technical merit, student engagement, personnel qualifications, and relevance to naval science and technology challenges. The evaluation process includes both scientific and programmatic review, with final award decisions contingent on funding availability and applicant responsibility. Successful proposals demonstrate innovation, feasibility, and a strong connection to defense-related research needs. Key deadlines for this opportunity include a mandatory white paper submission due in mid-September, followed by invited full proposals due in mid-December. Notifications of selection are expected in March of the following year, with project start dates anticipated in early July. The program follows a structured timeline and is expected to recur annually, providing ongoing opportunities for eligible institutions to participate in naval research initiatives.

Align research clearly with naval S&T priorities and engage with Navy technical contacts before submission; emphasize student roles and measurable outcomes