Mitigating Proliferation Risks Posed by Artificial Intelligence Enabled Molecular Models and Leveraging Nonproliferation Opportunities

The U.S. Department of State, through its Bureau of Arms Control and Nonproliferation, Office of the Nonproliferation and Disarmament Fund (ACN/NDF), has issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity titled Mitigating Proliferation Risks Posed by Artificial Intelligence Enabled Molecular Models and Leveraging Nonproliferation Opportunities. This program is designed to support projects that address emerging global security risks associated with artificial intelligence applications in chemistry and biology, particularly those that could enable the development or misuse of chemical and biological weapons. ACN/NDF operates as a key mechanism for advancing U.S. government priorities in reducing threats from weapons of mass destruction and strengthening international nonproliferation efforts. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to identify vulnerabilities in AI-enabled molecular models and to develop mitigation strategies that prevent their exploitation for harmful purposes. Projects are expected to contribute to safeguarding AI technologies used in molecular research, while also promoting beneficial uses of AI for detection, prevention, and response to proliferation risks. Applicants may propose activities such as technical risk assessments, development of safeguards and best practices, creation of secure data-sharing platforms, and engagement with international stakeholders to promote responsible AI use. Funding under this opportunity will support a wide range of activities, including research and development, technical evaluations, international workshops, and the creation of guidelines or tools. Projects should produce tangible deliverables such as codes of ethics, software tools, methodologies, or policy frameworks. The program emphasizes both risk mitigation and proactive use of AI to enhance detection and response capabilities related to illicit chemical and biological activities. Funding cannot be used for prohibited purposes outlined in federal restrictions, and all expenditures must comply with applicable federal cost principles. Eligibility is limited to U.S.-based entities, including nonprofit organizations, institutions of higher education, for-profit organizations, and U.S. federal government entities. While cost sharing is permitted, it is not required and does not influence the competitiveness of an application. Applicants must ensure compliance with federal regulations, including registration in SAM.gov and obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier. Organizations with exclusions in federal systems or outstanding debts to the U.S. government are not eligible to apply. The application process requires submission through the MyGrants platform and includes several mandatory components: standard federal forms (SF-424 and SF-424A), a proposal narrative, a detailed budget and budget narrative, documentation for key personnel, and a monitoring and evaluation plan. The proposal narrative must clearly outline objectives, activities, timeline, organizational capacity, and sustainability plans. Applications must adhere strictly to formatting and submission requirements, and incomplete or noncompliant submissions will be disqualified. Applications are due by July 21, 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. The anticipated period of performance is up to 24 months. Following submission, proposals undergo an initial eligibility screening and a merit-based review by a panel of subject matter experts. Evaluation criteria include the quality and relevance of proposed activities, organizational capability, budget realism, and past performance. Final award decisions are made by senior officials within ACN/NDF, and awards are contingent on funding availability and successful negotiation of project details. Selected recipients will enter into a cooperative agreement, which involves substantial collaboration with the Department of State. This includes regular coordination, milestone reviews, and participation in project planning and stakeholder engagement. Reporting requirements include quarterly financial and performance reports, as well as a final report at the conclusion of the project. The program is a one-time funding opportunity with no explicit indication of recurring cycles.

Ensure strong alignment with program objectives and clearly demonstrate technical understanding of AI proliferation risks; provide detailed and realistic budget justification; emphasize measurable outcomes and sustainability; highlight organizational experience and past performance