2026 Alaska Marine Education and Training Mini-Grant Program

The 2026 Alaska Marine Education and Training Mini-Grant Program, solicitation number NOAA-NMFS-AK-2026-33268, is a funding opportunity issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to support projects that enhance the sustainability and competitiveness of Alaska's marine community. In alignment with Executive Order 14276, the program prioritizes workforce development for marine-related professions, including marine science, aquaculture, and maritime operations. Key focus areas include improving seafood safety and marketing, implementing technological innovations in fishing practices, and utilizing local knowledge for regionally-specific fishery management. All proposed projects must be conducted within Alaska. Applicants must be registered in SAM.gov, eRA Commons, and Grants.gov, and provide a Unique Entity Identifier. The application process requires specific federal forms, including SF-424, SF-424A, SF-424B, and CD-511, along with a project narrative, a title page and abstract, and a NEPA questionnaire. Proposals are evaluated based on technical and scientific merit, applicant qualifications, outreach and education strategies, and the realism of project costs. Awards are generally granted based on rank order of average reviewer scores, though the Selecting Official may adjust selections based on funding availability, geographic distribution, and program priorities. The period of performance for these grants begins no earlier than September 1, 2026, with subsequent cycles starting in 2027 and 2028. Recipients are required to submit financial and technical performance reports semi-annually via eRA. Additionally, the program mandates strict adherence to science integrity standards and the NOAA Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Prevention and Response Policy to ensure a safe and professional research environment. Submission deadlines are set for June 22, 2026, May 3, 2027, and May 1, 2028.