ARPA-E funds technology-focused, applied research and development aimed at creating real-world solutions to important problems in energy creation, distribution, and use. Applicants interested in receiving basic research financial assistance or funding to improve existing technology platforms would likely be better served by other Energy Department programs. 

How the ARPA-E Funding Process Works

ARPA-E issues periodic Funding Opportunity Announcements (FOAs), which are focused on overcoming specific technical barriers around a specific energy area. ARPA-E also issues periodic OPEN FOAs to identify high-potential projects that address the full range of energy-related technologies, as well as funding solicitations aimed at supporting America’s small business innovators.

All ARPA-E applicants are required to first submit a Notice of Intent and Concept Paper. ARPA-E will review the concept paper and provide early feedback on whether the idea is likely to form the basis of a successful full application. Only after ARPA-E has provided a notification on the concept paper will the applicant be permitted to submit a full application.

For information on ARPA-E’s current FOAs and detailed information on the ARPA-E funding application process, please click on the button below. 

Specific questions about ARPA-E’s funding process are addressed in our FAQs.

To stay informed when ARPA-E announces new FOAs, sign up for the ARPA-E Newsletter.