Open Textbook Pilot Program

The Open Textbook Pilot Program, solicitation ED-GRANT-26-035, is a discretionary grant initiative administered by the Department of Labor on behalf of the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Postsecondary Education. The program aims to support eligible institutions of higher education or State higher education agencies in creating and expanding the use of open textbooks and course materials, specifically targeting high-enrollment courses and programs in in-demand fields to maximize student cost savings. With an estimated total funding of 7 million dollars, the program expects to make approximately four awards ranging from 1.5 million to 2 million dollars each for a 48-month performance period. Key project goals include content development, ensuring accessibility for students with disabilities, capacity building for faculty, and the potential use of artificial intelligence to accelerate content creation. Applications must be submitted via Grants.gov by June 23, 2026, and require registration in SAM.gov and Grants.gov. Proposals are evaluated by a panel of non-federal peer reviewers based on project design, management plan, project need, evaluation plan, and institutionalization, with a maximum possible score of 120 points including competitive preference priorities. Required documentation includes a project narrative limited to 65 pages, a detailed budget narrative, proof of nonprofit status, and various standard federal forms. The program is governed by the Education Department General Administrative Regulations and Uniform Guidance, and it does not require cost sharing or matching. Grantees must adhere to strict civil rights compliance, including Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act.