The Automated Permitting Systems Demonstration NOFO (PDR-2600-DC-029O) invites eligible state and local governments to apply for funding to deploy AI-enabled permitting and plan review systems in real-world settings. Administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), this demonstration will evaluate the impact of automated platforms on processing efficiency, workflow, staff roles, and applicant experience, and will produce evidence on costs and governance to inform broader adoption.

Overview

The program supports projects that adopt automated building code permitting systems and partner with HUD to assess their effectiveness within actual government permitting environments. Research is authorized under Sections 501 and 502 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1970 (12 U.S.C. §1701z-1 and §1701z-2), with funding provided by the Full‑Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025 (Public Law 119‑4).

Funding and Awards

• Total Estimated Funding: $3,000,000
• Award Ceiling: $1,500,000 per award
• Award Floor: $300,000 per award
• Number of Awards: Up to 6 awards from available funding
• Type of Instrument: Cooperative Agreement
• Performance Period: 12 to 36 months, chosen by the applicant to fit project complexity and methodology

Eligibility

Eligible applicants are limited to the following entity types:

• State governments
• County governments
• City or township governments
• Federally recognized Native American tribal governments

Individuals, foreign entities, and sole proprietorship organizations are not eligible to compete for or receive awards. Faith‑based organizations may apply on the same basis as any other organization. All applicants must meet current HUD General Statutory and Regulatory Eligibility Requirements, and failure to do so will result in disqualification.

Application Process

Applicants must have active registrations in both SAM.gov and Grants.gov before submitting an application. Registration in SAM.gov can take several weeks; a valid Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) is required. Grants.gov registration also requires a Login.gov account. Applications are due by the deadline below and must comply with all requirements detailed in the full NOFO, including standard forms, budget narratives, and attachments. For complete instructions, refer to the official NOFO attachment: Automated Permitting Systems Demonstration NOFO (PDR-2600-DC-029O)_5.29.2026.pdf.

Deadline and Contact

• Deadline: July 13, 2026, at 11:59:59 PM Eastern Time
• Agency Contact: researchpartnerships@hud.gov or 202‑402‑2440 (HUD Policy Development and Research)

For additional support, applicants may also consult Grants.gov and SAM.gov online help resources.