Mitigating Proliferation Risks Posed by Artificial Intelligence Enabled Molecular Models and Leveraging Nonproliferation Opportunities
This grant supports projects to identify and develop safeguards against the misuse of AI-enabled molecular models in chemical and biological proliferation.
Funder: Bureau of Arms Control and Nonproliferation
Due Dates: July 21, 2026 (Full application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $4,000,000 total; award ceiling $4,000,000; 2–5 awards expected; up to 24 months per award.
Summary: Supports projects to identify, assess, and mitigate proliferation risks from AI-enabled molecular models, and to leverage AI for nonproliferation in chemical and biological contexts.
Key Information: Lead applicant must be a U.S.-based entity; foreign subrecipients allowed.
Description
This opportunity, issued by the U.S. Department of State's Office of the Nonproliferation and Disarmament Fund (ACN/NDF), seeks proposals that address the proliferation risks posed by chemical and biological AI models (CBAIMs) and leverage AI for nonproliferation objectives. The program aims to identify vulnerabilities, develop safeguards, and promote responsible use of AI in molecular design, synthesis, and related applications. Projects may include technical assessments, development of best practices, creation of software tools, international guidelines, or organizing stakeholder workshops. Proposals can address all or a subset of the outlined objectives and should demonstrate sustainable impact, engagement with international partners, and tangible deliverables relevant to mitigating WMD proliferation risks.
