FY 2024 Phase II Release 1

Background
The Department of Energy (DOE) is inviting eligible Phase I and Phase II awardees to apply for Phase II awards under the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) DE-FOA-0003184. The purpose of the FOA is to perform the research and development required to meet the DOE objectives stated in the topic and subtopic of the Phase I FOA. The FOA is supplemental to the FY 2023 SBIR/STTR Phase I Release 1 FOA (DE-FOA-0002783).

Grant Details
The FOA provides details on various requirements and changes, including a new cybersecurity self-assessment requirement, a Promoting Inclusive and Equitable Research (PIER) Plan as an appendix to the project narrative, changes in reporting requirements, enhanced reporting requirements for applications and awards, and an increased diversity supplement maximum award. It also outlines specific details for Initial Phase II Awards, Second Phase II Awards (Phase IIA and IIB), and Third Phase II Awards (Phase IIC). Additionally, it specifies that DOE anticipates making approximately 55 awards under this FOA with an anticipated median award size of approximately $1,100,000.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include domestic small business concerns (SBCs) that have completed their Phase I period of performance prior to the start date listed in this FOA. Only those applicants that submit a Letter of Intent are eligible to submit an application under this FOA. Additionally, currently active DOE SBIR or STTR Phase I awardees with awards resulting from specific FOAs are eligible to apply for Phase II awards under this FOA. Furthermore, some second Phase II awardees are eligible to receive a third SBIR Phase II award if they meet specific criteria.

Period of Performance
DOE anticipates making awards that will run for up to 24 months over two budget periods. The first budget period is anticipated to begin April 1, 2024. Funding for the second budget period will be contingent on adequate progress, evaluation of programmatic priorities, availability of funds, and compliance with the terms and conditions of the award.

Grant Value
Approximately $70,000,000 is expected to be available for awards under this FOA contingent on the availability of appropriated funds. The anticipated median award will be approximately $1,100,000.