Opportunity Information: Apply for S21AS00363
The Department of the Interior's Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) is offering funding for applied science projects that develop and demonstrate better science and technologies tied to coal mining and the reclamation of land after mining. The intent is practical and implementation-focused: supported projects are expected to help solve real-world problems that matter to OSMRE and improve how the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMCRA) is carried out. In other words, this opportunity is aimed at usable research and field-tested methods or tools that can strengthen regulatory implementation and on-the-ground reclamation outcomes, rather than purely theoretical studies.
Awards are provided through a cooperative agreement, which generally means OSMRE anticipates being substantially involved during the project (for example through coordination, technical input, or oversight) compared with a more hands-off grant. If another federal agency is participating, the award may instead be structured as an interagency agreement. Applicants can request up to $200,000 per project. The project period must match what is proposed but cannot exceed two years from the date of award. If more time is needed, extensions are possible but they are specifically described as non-funded (no additional money) and are only granted when delays are outside the Principal Investigator's control, with the expectation that extensions are used strictly to finish the originally approved work.
OSMRE restricts eligibility to proposals that address a specific set of approved issue areas listed in the full solicitation. That requirement is central: proposals that do not align with the eligible issues will not be accepted for consideration. The opportunity includes instructions for how to prepare the proposal and explains the review process, signaling that submissions will be evaluated against the agency's defined priorities and criteria rather than open-ended topics. Because the program is tied to SMCRA implementation and coal mine reclamation challenges, applicants should expect the reviewers to prioritize clear relevance to regulatory and reclamation needs, demonstrable applied outcomes, and a feasible plan for completing the work within the two-year limit.
A wide range of applicant types are eligible, including state and county governments, public and state-controlled colleges and universities, private institutions of higher education, federally recognized tribal governments, IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofits (other than higher education institutions), for-profit organizations (including those other than small businesses), small businesses, and other eligible entities identified by the program. Regardless of applicant type, documentation must be provided to confirm eligibility, such as proof of 501(c)(3) status for nonprofits or an authorizing tribal resolution for tribal applicants. The funding opportunity is listed as discretionary and falls under science and technology and other research and development activities, with CFDA number 15.255. The opportunity number is S21AS00363, it was created on August 20, 2021, and the original closing date was October 7, 2021.Apply for S21AS00363
- The Office of Surface Mining in the science and technology and other research and development sector is offering a public funding opportunity titled "Science and Technology Projects Related to Coal Mining and Reclamation; Applied Science Projects" and is now available to receive applicants.
- Interested and eligible applicants and submit their applications by referencing the CFDA number(s): 15.255.
- This funding opportunity was created on 2021-08-20.
- Applicants must submit their applications by 2021-10-07. (Agency may still review applications by suitable applicants for the remaining/unused allocated funding in 2026.)
- Each selected applicant is eligible to receive up to $200,000.00 in funding.
- Eligible applicants include: State governments, County governments, Public and State controlled institutions of higher education, Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized), Nonprofits having a 501 (c) (3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education, Private institutions of higher education, For-profit organizations other than small businesses, Small businesses, Others.
[Watch] Creating a grant proposal using the step-by-step wizard inside the applicant portal:
FAQs - OSMRE Applied Science Projects for Coal Mining and Reclamation (Opportunity S21AS00363)
What is this funding opportunity about?
This opportunity from the Department of the Interior's Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) funds applied science projects that develop and demonstrate improved science and technologies related to coal mining and the reclamation of land after mining. The emphasis is on practical, implementation-focused work that can be used in the field and in regulatory programs.
What types of projects is OSMRE looking for?
OSMRE is looking for projects that solve real-world problems tied to coal mining and reclamation and that help improve how the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMCRA) is carried out. Projects should focus on usable research and methods or tools that can be demonstrated and applied, rather than purely theoretical studies.
How is this opportunity connected to SMCRA?
The intent is to support work that strengthens SMCRA implementation. Proposals should show clear relevance to regulatory implementation and on-the-ground reclamation outcomes that matter to OSMRE.
Is this a grant or something else?
Awards are made through a cooperative agreement, which typically means OSMRE expects to be substantially involved during the project (for example through coordination, technical input, or oversight) rather than providing a hands-off grant. If another federal agency is participating, the award may be structured as an interagency agreement.
What does "substantial involvement" mean in a cooperative agreement?
Based on the opportunity description, substantial involvement can include coordination with OSMRE and agency participation through technical input or oversight during the project. This indicates an expectation of active collaboration during performance.
What is the maximum amount that can be requested?
Applicants can request up to $200,000 per project.
How long can the project last?
The project period must match what is proposed but cannot exceed two years from the date of award.
Are no-cost extensions allowed?
Yes. Extensions are described as non-funded (no additional money) and are only granted when delays are outside the Principal Investigator's control. Extensions are expected to be used only to finish the originally approved work.
Are additional funds available if the project needs more time?
No. Extensions are specifically described as non-funded, meaning no additional funding is provided.
Do proposals have to fit within certain topic areas?
Yes. OSMRE restricts eligibility to proposals that address specific approved issue areas listed in the full solicitation. This is a central requirement for eligibility.
What happens if a proposal does not align with the approved issue areas?
Proposals that do not align with the eligible, approved issue areas will not be accepted for consideration.
How will proposals be reviewed?
The opportunity includes instructions for how to prepare the proposal and explains the review process. Submissions will be evaluated against OSMRE's defined priorities and criteria, rather than open-ended topics.
What are reviewers likely to prioritize?
Given the program's focus on SMCRA implementation and reclamation challenges, reviewers should be expected to prioritize clear relevance to regulatory and reclamation needs, demonstrable applied outcomes, and a feasible plan to complete the work within the two-year limit.
Who is eligible to apply?
A wide range of applicants are eligible, including:
- State governments
- County governments
- Public and state-controlled colleges and universities
- Private institutions of higher education
- Federally recognized tribal governments
- IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofits (other than higher education institutions)
- For-profit organizations (including those other than small businesses)
- Small businesses
- Other eligible entities identified by the program
What documentation is required to confirm eligibility?
Applicants must provide documentation to confirm eligibility. Examples given include proof of 501(c)(3) status for nonprofit organizations and an authorizing tribal resolution for tribal applicants.
Are for-profit companies eligible?
Yes. The eligibility list includes for-profit organizations (including those other than small businesses) as well as small businesses.
Are nonprofits eligible?
Yes. IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofits (other than higher education institutions) are listed as eligible applicant types, and they must provide documentation such as proof of 501(c)(3) status.
Are colleges and universities eligible?
Yes. Both public/state-controlled colleges and universities and private institutions of higher education are listed as eligible.
Are tribal governments eligible?
Yes. Federally recognized tribal governments are eligible, and documentation such as an authorizing tribal resolution is referenced as part of confirming eligibility.
Is this funding discretionary?
Yes. The opportunity is listed as discretionary.
What is the CFDA number for this opportunity?
The CFDA number is 15.255.
What is the opportunity number?
The opportunity number is S21AS00363.
When was this opportunity created?
The opportunity was created on August 20, 2021.
What was the original closing date?
The original closing date was October 7, 2021.
What general activity category does this fall under?
The opportunity falls under science and technology and other research and development activities, with a focus on applied science tied to coal mining and mine land reclamation.
Browse more opportunities from the same category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development
Next opportunity: Cancer Center Support Grants (CCSGs) for NCI-designated Cancer Centers (P30 Clinical Trial Optional)
Previous opportunity: Connecting Minority Communities Pilot Program
Applicant Portal:
Are you interested in learning about about how to apply for this government funding opportunity? You can create a free applicant account and receive instant access to our applicant portal that many business owners like you have benefited from.
Apply for S21AS00363
Applicants also applied for:
Applicants who have applied for this opportunity (S21AS00363) also looked into and applied for these:
| Funding Opportunity |
|---|
| Early Career Research Program Apply for DE FOA 0002563 Funding Number: DE FOA 0002563 Agency: Office of Science Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $750,000 |
| Cooperative Research Units Program Apply for G22AS00040 Funding Number: G22AS00040 Agency: Geological Survey Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $1,000,000 |
| Young Faculty Award (YFA) Apply for DARPA RA 21 03 Funding Number: DARPA RA 21 03 Agency: DARPA - Defense Sciences Office Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: Case Dependent |
| Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for 3D Elevation Program (3DEP) Apply for G22AS00013 Funding Number: G22AS00013 Agency: Geological Survey Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $800,000 |
| Cooperative Agreement for CESU-affiliated Partner with Colorado Plateau Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit Apply for G22AS00052 Funding Number: G22AS00052 Agency: Geological Survey Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $148,537 |
| Cooperative Agreement for CESU-affiliated Partner with Piedmont-South Atlantic Coast Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit Apply for G22AS00051 Funding Number: G22AS00051 Agency: Geological Survey Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $81,000 |
| Cooperative Agreement for a CESU-affiliated Partner with the Gulf Coast Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit Apply for G22AS00053 Funding Number: G22AS00053 Agency: Geological Survey Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $400,000 |
| Cooperative Agreement for CESU-affiliated Partner with Californian Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit Apply for G22AS00057 Funding Number: G22AS00057 Agency: Geological Survey Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $70,000 |
| Environmental System Science (ESS) Apply for DE FOA 0002584 Funding Number: DE FOA 0002584 Agency: Office of Science Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $1,000,000 |
| The State Component of the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program Apply for G22AS00055 Funding Number: G22AS00055 Agency: Geological Survey Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $1,000,000 |
| Cooperative Agreement for CESU-affiliated Partner with Colorado Plateau Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit Apply for G22AS00059 Funding Number: G22AS00059 Agency: Geological Survey Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $25,000 |
| Cooperative Agreement for CESU-affiliated Partner with South Florida - Caribbean Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit Apply for G22AS00062 Funding Number: G22AS00062 Agency: Geological Survey Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $100,000 |
| The Educational Component of the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program Apply for G22AS00060 Funding Number: G22AS00060 Agency: Geological Survey Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $70,000 |
| Annual Program Statement for Development Innovation Ventures. Apply for 7200AA22APS00001 Funding Number: 7200AA22APS00001 Agency: Agency for International Development Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $15,000,000 |
| Metals-based Additive Manufacturing Grant Program Apply for 2022 NIST MBAMGP 01 Funding Number: 2022 NIST MBAMGP 01 Agency: National Institute of Standards and Technology Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: Case Dependent |
| Quantum-Enabled Bioimaging and Sensing Approaches for Bioenergy Apply for DE FOA 0002603 Funding Number: DE FOA 0002603 Agency: Office of Science Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $750,000 |
| DHS S&T COE Supplemental Application Apply for DHS 21 061 COE SUPP Funding Number: DHS 21 061 COE SUPP Agency: Office of Procurement Operations - Grants Division Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $20,000,000 |
| Computational Chemical Sciences Apply for DE FOA 0002608 Funding Number: DE FOA 0002608 Agency: Office of Science Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $2,000,000 |
| SciDAC: Partnerships in Earth System Model Development Apply for DE FOA 0002585 Funding Number: DE FOA 0002585 Agency: Office of Science Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $15,000,000 |
| Cooperative Agreement for Affiliated Partner with Great Basin Cooperative Ecosystems Studies Unit Apply for G22AS00108 Funding Number: G22AS00108 Agency: Geological Survey Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $20,000 |
Grant application guides and resources
It is always free to apply for government grants. However the process may be very complex depending on the funding opportunity you are applying for. Let us help you!
Apply for Grants
Inside Our Applicants Portal
Access Applicants Portal
- Grants Repository - Access current and historic funding opportunities with ease. Thousands of funding opportunities are published every week. We can help you sort through the database and find the eligible ones to apply for.
- Applicant Video Guides - The grant application process can be challenging to follow. We can help you with intuitive video guides to speed up the process and eliminate errors in submissions.
- Grant Proposal Wizard - We have developed a network of private funding organizations and investors across the United States. We can reach out and submit your proposal to these contacts to maximize your chances of getting the funding you need.
Premium leads for funding administrators, grant writers, and loan issuers
Thousands of people visit our website for their funding needs every day. When a user creates a grant proposal and files for submission, we pass the information on to funding administrators, grant writers, and government loan issuers.
If you manage government grant programs, provide grant writing services, or issue personal or government loans, we can help you reach your audience.
Learn More
Request more information:
Would you like to learn more about this funding opportunity, similar opportunities to "S21AS00363", eligibility, application service, and/or application tips? Submit an inquiry below:
Don't forget to subscribe to our grant alerts mailing list to receive weekly alerts on new and updated grant funding opportunities like this one in your email.