Fiscal Year 2026 Consolidated Innovative Nuclear Research
This grant supports collaborative research and innovation to advance U.S. nuclear energy technology, ensure reactor operation, develop new fuel cycles, and maintain U.S. leadership in the field.
Funder: Idaho Field Office
Due Dates: January 5, 2026 (NSUF Letter of Intent) | February 3, 2026 (R&D Pre-Application) | February 24, 2026 (NSUF Pre-Application SOW & Readiness Statement) | May 21, 2026 (NSUF Full-Application SOW) | June 9, 2026 (Full Application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $3,100,000 per award (IRPs); typical R&D awards up to $1,000,000–$1,100,000; total program funding approx. $57,000,000; project periods up to 3 years (7 years for NSUF).
Summary: Supports collaborative research advancing nuclear energy science, technology, and infrastructure through NEUP and NSUF programs.
Key Information: Applications must be submitted through NEUP.gov; LOI required for NSUF projects; cost sharing is not required.
Description
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Idaho Field Office invites applications for the Fiscal Year 2026 Consolidated Innovative Nuclear Research (CINR) program. This opportunity funds research, development, and infrastructure projects that advance nuclear energy science and technology to address U.S. energy, environmental, and economic needs. The program encompasses the Nuclear Energy University Program (NEUP) and the Nuclear Science User Facilities (NSUF), supporting university, national laboratory, and industry-led projects, as well as providing user access to specialized nuclear research facilities.
Key focus areas include:
- Continued operation and optimization of existing U.S. nuclear reactors
- Deployment of advanced nuclear reactors
- Development of advanced nuclear fuel cycles
- Maintaining U.S. leadership in nuclear energy technology
Research must be non-proprietary, and results are expected to be made publicly available.
