The Advanced Research Projects Agency
- Energy (ARPA-E) has announced the availability of funding through the Spurring Projects to Advance Energy Research and Knowledge Swiftly (SPARKS) program. This funding opportunity is part of ARPA-E's mission, as established by the America COMPETES Act of 2007 and its subsequent amendments, to enhance the economic and energy security of the United States. The goal of this program is to support early-stage applied research that explores innovative new concepts with the potential for significant advancements in energy technology. The SPARKS program aims to provide flexible funding for analyses, exploratory research, and proof-of-concept projects that can inform the development of focused technology programs. Applicants should be aware that this funding opportunity is open continuously and will accept applications until it is closed or replaced by a modified FOA, which is anticipated to occur annually, subject to the availability of appropriated funds. The program encompasses multiple technical categories, including grid technologies, transportation, buildings and construction, electricity generation and storage, carbon capture, sequestration, and utilization, industrial efficiency and decarbonization, and other energy technologies. Eligible applicants include individuals, domestic entities, and Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), among others. The maximum federal share per award is $500,000, with a performance period not exceeding 18 months.