Workforce Development for the Energy Transition

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine’s Gulf Research Program (GRP) is offering a funding opportunity aimed at preparing a skilled workforce to support the evolving energy sector. The goal of this initiative is to enhance workforce readiness and scientific literacy among residents of the U.S. Gulf States, equipping young individuals with the tools necessary for careers in new and emerging energy technologies. This initiative is positioned to benefit both the individuals acquiring these critical skills and the broader energy sector, which is undergoing significant transformations driven by technological advancements and sustainability imperatives. This grant opportunity invites sustainable, data-driven, and industry-engaged project proposals that deliver education and training to individuals aged 16 to 25. The program is tailored for organizations that operate in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida. Successful applicants must establish partnerships with local employers and industry bodies to identify workforce needs, develop pertinent educational curricula, and deliver services that include training, job placement, and employment retention. Funding is allocated at a total of $3 million, and individual grant requests must fall between $100,000 and $750,000. Projects should span between one and three years, and the grant amount requested must be proportionate to the scope of the work proposed. The number of awards will depend on the number and quality of applications submitted. This opportunity is specifically intended for educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, tribal entities, and state or local governments working in the eligible Gulf States. The grant application process opens on April 2, 2025, and a Q&A session for prospective applicants is scheduled for April 30, 2025. Additionally, applicants can attend Submission Help Office Hours on June 24, 2025, to receive last-minute support. Completed applications must be submitted by June 25, 2025, no later than 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Final award decisions will be communicated in September 2025, with funding expected to commence on November 1, 2025. To apply, interested parties must submit their proposals through the Gulf Research Program’s online portal at https://gulfresearchprogram.smapply.io/. For further assistance or inquiries, applicants may contact Matthew Stilwell by email at GulfGrants@nas.edu or by phone at (202) 334-1502. Additional support staff includes Karena Mary Mothershed and David Montez, who are also involved in managing the initiative.