The INSPIRING GENERATIONS OF NEW INNOVATORS TO IMPACT TECHNOLOGIES IN ENERGY 2026 (IGNIITE 2026) supports a new cohort of early-career innovators in developing the most disruptive and unconventional ideas into transformative new energy technologies. Issued by the Advanced Research Projects Agency–Energy (ARPA-E), this opportunity invites applications for transformational research and development across the full spectrum of energy applications.

Overview

IGNIITE 2026 funds applied research and development that has the potential to create fundamentally new learning curves and disrupt existing energy markets. Projects may take the form of exploratory research that provides information useful for subsequent focused technology programs, or proof-of-concept research for a new technology not currently supported by ARPA-E. Awardees will also engage with ARPA-E, fellow awardees, investors, and other government stakeholders through dedicated events, meetings, and mentorship activities.

Funding and Benefits

• Program Funding: $10,000,000 total
• Award Maximum: $500,000
• Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement: No
• Funding Instrument Type: Grant

Eligibility

Eligible applicants must apply as a Standalone Applicant only (no project teams or subrecipients). The following entity types that are incorporated in the United States, including U.S. territories, are eligible:

• Business: For-profit organizations other than small businesses; small businesses
• Education: Private institutions of higher education; public and state institutions of higher education
• Nonprofit: Nonprofits non-higher education with or without 501(c)(3) status
• Miscellaneous: Other (including DOE/NNSA FFRDCs/DOE Labs)

In addition, the Principal Investigator must meet the early-career researcher definition provided in the NOFO Section II.A.

Application Process

Applicants must register with and submit application materials through ARPA‑E eXCHANGE at https://arpa-e-foa.energy.gov/Registration.aspx. Detailed guidance is available in the ARPA‑E eXCHANGE User Guide. Applications submitted through other means will not be reviewed or considered. The NOFO number is DE-FOA-0003624. For problems with ARPA‑E eXCHANGE, email ExchangeHelp@hq.doe.gov with the NOFO name and number in the subject line. Questions about this opportunity may be directed to ARPA-E-CO@hq.doe.gov, after checking the Frequently Asked Questions at http://arpa-e.energy.gov/faq.

Deadline and Timeline

• Closing Date: May 29, 2026
• Posted Date: April 23, 2026
• Archive Date: November 11, 2026

Contact Information

Grantor Contact: ARPA-E GO
Email: arpa-e-co@hq.doe.gov

To view the full Notice of Funding Opportunity, visit ARPA-E eXCHANGE.