The Department of Energy's Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) has announced a funding opportunity for the CATALCHEM-E SBIR/STTR program, focusing on small businesses. This initiative aims to revolutionize the research and development cycle for heterogeneous catalysts by leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and high-throughput experimentation (HTE). The program’s goal is to reduce the R&D timeline from 10–15 years to 12–18 months, significantly accelerating the development of advanced catalytic chemistries. These innovations will support ARPA-E’s objectives, including the transition to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The program will fund projects targeting the discovery and optimization of catalytic chemistries for next-generation feedstocks and products. Feedstocks include hydrogen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, waste plastics, and bio-intermediates, while target products include low-carbon monomers, sustainable aviation fuel, diesel, and syngas. The initiative underscores the use of cutting-edge technologies to modernize catalyst R&D and scale up novel workflows.
The total funding for the program is $35 million, with awards ranging from $2.5 million to $3.5 million. Up to 12 awards are expected. This funding opportunity is restricted to small businesses as defined in Section II.A of the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). Cost-sharing is required, and applicants must adhere to guidelines outlined in the NOFO. Applications must be submitted by December 17, 2024, at 9:30 AM Eastern Time through the appropriate platform. Eligibility requires registration with SAM.gov and compliance with federal standards.
Applications will be evaluated based on technical merit, innovation, feasibility, and alignment with ARPA-E’s strategic goals. Selected projects will be expected to demonstrate rapid advancements in catalysis and contribute to sustainable energy solutions.
Further details can be obtained by contacting ARPA-E or accessing the NOFO directly. This program represents a critical opportunity for small businesses to lead advancements in clean energy technologies and contribute to global sustainability efforts.
