FY26 US DOT Drone Infrastructure Inspection Grants (DIIG) Program
This grant provides up to $9 million for government entities to adopt and enhance drone technology for safer, more efficient inspection and maintenance of critical infrastructure, with funding covering up to 75% of project costs.
Funder: 69A345 Office of the Under Secretary for Policy
Due Dates (Anticipated): November 2026 (Full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: $500,000–$9,000,000 per award; total program funding $9,000,000; up to 5 awards; project period varies.
Summary: Supports government entities in adopting drone technologies for safer, more efficient inspection and maintenance of critical infrastructure.
Key Information: Federal share capped at 50% (up to 75% with approved justification); private/nonprofit entities not eligible as lead applicants.
Description
This program provides competitive grants to eligible government entities to facilitate the use of small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), or drones, for the inspection, operation, construction, maintenance, and repair of critical infrastructure. The goal is to increase the adoption of drone technologies to improve worker safety and efficiency in infrastructure projects. Eligible uses of funds include acquiring or enhancing drone systems, contracting for services where in-house expertise is lacking, and program management. The program prioritizes innovative approaches to drone inspections, data management, and interoperability, especially in multi-jurisdictional contexts.
