[Department of the Interior](https://www.doi.gov)

May 18, 2026 (Full application submission deadline)

Estimated total funding: $15,000,000 | Typical award ceiling: $15,000,000 | ~10 awards expected | No cost sharing required

Supports energy projects in U.S. territories to reduce reliance on imported fuels, lower electricity costs, and improve energy infrastructure and efficiency.

--- ## Description This program, managed by the Department of the Interior's Office of Insular Affairs (OIA), funds projects that enhance energy security and reliability in U.S. territories. The Energizing Insular Communities (EIC) Program aims to reduce dependence on imported fuels, decrease electricity costs, and improve the performance and efficiency of local energy infrastructure. Projects must align with updated strategic energy plans, energy action plans, or integrated resource plans for the territory. Strong preference is given to projects using domestically produced components and materials. Eligible project types include energy supply and efficiency improvements using commercially available technologies (e.g., natural gas, diesel, geothermal, waste-to-energy, biogas, storage, and transmission). Solar, wind, and pilot projects are not eligible. The program does not fund routine operating expenses or salaries for existing local employees but may fund short-term contractors or consultants. --- ## Due Dates - **May 18, 2026**: Full application submission deadline (electronically submitted applications must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m. ET on this date) --- ## Funding Amount - **Estimated total program funding:** $15,000,000 - **Award ceiling:** $15,000,000 - **Award floor:** $0 - **Expected number of awards:** Approximately 10 - **Cost sharing/matching:** Not required Award amounts depend on the number and type of applications received; OIA may partially fund projects. --- ## Eligibility - **Eligible applicants:** - Local government entities - Utilities - Semi-autonomous agencies - Institutions of higher education - **Geographic restriction:** Applicants must be located in the U.S. territories of: - Guam - American Samoa - U.S. Virgin Islands - Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands - **Not eligible:** Judicial or Legislative branches of local governments (per 2 CFR 200.444) - **Other requirements:** Applicants must comply with federal regulations (2 CFR Part 200). --- ## Application Process - **Submission platforms:** [Grants.gov](https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361517) or GrantSolutions.gov - **Registrations required:** - SAM.gov (obtain Unique Entity Identifier) - Grants.gov and/or GrantSolutions.gov registration (allow up to 30 days) - **Application components:** - SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance) - Budget forms (SF-424A or SF-424C) - Assurances (SF-424B or SF-424D) - Project Abstract Summary - Project Narrative (detailed project description, timeline, statement of need, goals/objectives, environmental/regulatory compliance, etc.) - Signed cover letter from an authorized representative - Budget narrative and supporting documentation - Other forms as specified in the NOFO - **Submission tips:** Begin registrations early; late or incomplete applications may be removed from consideration. --- ## Additional Information - **Buy America requirements:** Infrastructure projects must comply with Buy America preferences (2 CFR Part 184). - **Reporting:** Semi-annual narrative and financial reports required. - **Performance measures:** Proposals must include at least one output and one outcome metric. - **Funding restrictions:** No routine operating expenses or salaries for existing employees; must comply with federal cost principles. - **Selection criteria:** Projects are evaluated on alignment with strategic plans, cost savings, technical merit, environmental considerations, project management, and stakeholder support. --- ## External Links - [Full Grants.gov Listing (OIA-EIC-2026)](https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361517) - [Office of Insular Affairs Funding Opportunity PDF](https://api.atomgrants.com/storage/v1/object/public/grants3-sources/Foa_Content_of_OIA-EIC-2026-(1).pdf) - [Department of the Interior](https://www.doi.gov) - [SAM.gov Registration](https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration) - [GrantSolutions.gov](https://www.grantsolutions.gov/gs/) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Email | Notes | |-----------------|-------------------------------------|-------------------------------------| | Krystina Alfano | krystina_alfano@ios.doi.gov | Program contact for technical/application questions | ---

FY 2026 Energizing Insular Communities Program

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