Fiscal Year 2026 Phase II Continuation Consolidated Innovative Nuclear Research

The Fiscal Year 2026 Phase II Continuation Consolidated Innovative Nuclear Research (CINR) opportunity, administered by the Idaho Field Office on behalf of the Office of Nuclear Energy (NE), supports U.S. universities in conducting nuclear energy-related research that aligns with NE’s mission priorities. This funding opportunity focuses on continuing promising research pathways by inviting applications that directly complement and extend research previously awarded through the Nuclear Energy University Program (NEUP).

Overview

The Office of Nuclear Energy advances nuclear energy science and technology to meet U.S. energy, environmental, and economic needs. NE conducts crosscutting nuclear energy research and development and associated infrastructure support activities to develop innovative technologies that offer dramatically improved performance for its mission. All applications must demonstrate a strong tie to at least one of the four NE mission priorities and highlight how they support DOE priorities.

Mission Priorities

• Keep existing U.S. nuclear reactors operating
• Deploy new nuclear reactors
• Secure and sustain the nuclear fuel cycle
• Expand international nuclear energy cooperation

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include U.S. universities, specifically private institutions of higher education and public and state institutions of higher education. Additionally, small businesses and for-profit organizations other than small businesses may apply.

Projects eligible for this opportunity are CINR awarded projects, including research and development (R&D) and Integrated Research Projects (IRPs), that conclude between January 1, 2026, and September 30, 2026. Nuclear Science User Facilities (NSUF) Access Only projects are not eligible under this funding opportunity; such projects should apply to the separate FY 2026 CINR NOFO for NSUF Access Only.

Funding and Benefits

• Program Funding: $3,000,000
• Expected Awards: 4
• Award Maximum: $1,200,000
• Funding Instrument: Grant
• Opportunity Category: Discretionary
• Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement: No
• Funding Opportunity Number: DE-FOA-0003539
• Assistance Listing: 81.121 — Nuclear Energy Research, Development and Demonstration

Deadline and Timeline

• Closing Date: May 20, 2026
• Posted Date: December 15, 2025
• Last Updated: May 13, 2026
• Archive Date: June 19, 2026

Contact Information

Rebecca B. Hansen
Phone: 208-526-1720
Email: hansenrb@id.doe.gov

Andrew Ford
Phone: 208-526-3059
Email: fordaj@id.doe.gov

Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov. Refer to the full Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) documents for complete application instructions and requirements.