The Kentucky Nuclear Energy Development Authority (KNEDA), administered by the University of Kentucky’s Center for Applied Energy Research (CAER), invites proposals for its nuclear energy development grant program. KNEDA was established by the 2024 Kentucky General Assembly to support projects that drive technological advancement and economic development in Kentucky’s nuclear energy sector. This initiative reflects the state’s commitment to building a comprehensive and sustainable energy future through nuclear innovation.
The funding program seeks to advance a wide spectrum of nuclear-related activities, including but not limited to reactor design, supply chain manufacturing, site development, nuclear safety, environmental remediation, and public outreach. Proposals are expected to demonstrate significant potential for job creation, workforce training, and public health and safety improvements. Of particular interest are projects located in nuclear-ready, underserved, or economically distressed communities in Kentucky.
Eligible applicants include registered organizations, businesses, and research institutions operating within Kentucky. Proposals must clearly outline how they will contribute to the nuclear energy ecosystem and meet state energy goals. All submissions must include plans for public input and workforce engagement. Projects that foster collaboration between academic institutions, local communities, and industry stakeholders are strongly encouraged, especially those that leverage private sector investment or offer educational and workforce development components.
Applicants may submit proposals under several categories, such as nuclear technology R&D, energy infrastructure deployment, nuclear safety research, workforce training, or public engagement initiatives. Each project may request up to $2 million in funding. Budgets should detail personnel, materials, travel, and community engagement costs. Proposals must show the applicant’s capacity to execute the project and sustain it beyond the grant period.
The RFP is available on the University of Kentucky’s procurement website. A non-mandatory pre-proposal Zoom conference will be held on October 14, 2025, with the deadline for written questions set for October 20. Final proposals must be submitted by October 31, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Presentations, if requested, are projected for the week of November 10.
For questions, applicants should contact Corey W. Leslie at corey.leslie@uky.edu. This program is not recurring annually but represents a significant investment in nuclear energy innovation during the current fiscal cycle. All relevant submission instructions, evaluation criteria, and required components are included in the full RFP document accessible via the official procurement website.
Emphasize job creation and state energy alignment; partner with industry or local entities; define outcomes clearly
