Regional Infrastructure Accelerator Program - NOFO Reissuance

The Regional Infrastructure Accelerator (RIA) Program – FY 2024 Tier 2, administered by the Build America Bureau of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), is offering $20 million in total funding through cooperative agreements. The program seeks applications from eligible U.S. public entities to support the establishment and operation of Regional Infrastructure Accelerators. These RIAs are designed to help regions prioritize infrastructure projects and develop innovative financing strategies to accelerate the delivery of transportation infrastructure projects eligible for TIFIA (Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act) credit assistance. The program funds activities such as project planning, feasibility studies, environmental reviews, financial analysis, engineering and design work, and assessments of private financing opportunities. RIAs must serve defined geographic areas and act as resources to qualified entities in those areas. Applications will be accepted from states, counties, municipalities, MPOs, tribal governments, special purpose districts, and similar public entities. Partnerships with private organizations or other non-public parties are permitted, provided the lead applicant is a public entity. While no cost sharing is required, applications that show long-term self-sustainability of the RIA are preferred. Applicants must propose a region and operational model for the RIA, identify an initial pipeline of infrastructure projects, and explain how they will support project development using innovative financing tools. RIAs are expected to operate for a base period of two years, with an optional third year based on performance and available funding. Awards are expected to range between $975,000 and $2 million, though larger or smaller awards may be made based on the strength and needs of the applications. A total of six to ten RIAs are expected to be selected. Applications are due no later than 11:59 p.m. EST on June 16, 2025, and must be submitted through Grants.gov. To apply, applicants must obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), register in the System for Award Management (SAM), and complete all required registrations on Grants.gov. The application package includes the SF-424 form, a cover page, and a narrative organized into five sections: applicant background, regional description, accelerator proposal, budget and sources of funds, and alignment with selection criteria. Supporting documents, maps, and graphics may also be submitted. Applications will be evaluated based on multiple criteria including the applicant’s experience and qualifications, strength of partnerships, business model, project pipeline, operational readiness, potential for self-sustainability, and risk mitigation. Each proposal will be rated as Strong, Moderate, or Marginal in each category. Final selection will prioritize geographic and organizational diversity and will be made by the Secretary of Transportation. For additional assistance, applicants can contact Program Manager Carl Ringgold at Carl.Ringgold@dot.gov or by phone at 202-913-3748. The Grants.gov application portal is open, and technical questions may be addressed through their support center. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early and ensure compliance with all submission requirements.