A current OTT project is deploying low-cost dissolved oxygen sensors on traps in the Pacific Northwest, providing fishermen with near real-time oxygen conditions that help them manage their traps while also providing valuable observing data to other fishermen, the scientific community, fisheries managers and policy makers. Photo credit: Pat Kemmish, F/V Richard H

The U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) is announcing a new $7.5 million funding opportunity in 2026 to accelerate the transition of novel ocean technologies from development to implementation and commercialization. Projects selected under this opportunity will support developing and improving observation, sensing, and information capabilities to monitor the oceans, coasts, and Great Lakes.

The IOOS Ocean Technology Transition (OTT) program seeks out technologies that are at a prototype stage, and for which there is known need, but which are not yet ready for operational deployment. Program priorities include:

• sensors for physical, biological, or chemical parameters, especially low-cost or accessible ocean technology sensors;
• use of cloud-based technologies and platforms and the use of artificial intelligence for analysis and quality assurance/quality control;
• use of novel autonomous vehicles/platforms;
• harmful algal bloom sensors and sensor platforms including deployment of sensors on new platforms;
• environmental DNA samplers and systems to improve the efficiency of sample collection;
• sensors for ocean acidification related measurements;
• high frequency radar (HFR) use impact and metrics, development, and improvement; and,
• novel data management, analytics, and integration to improve service delivery to customers.

Ocean and coastal data and information is increasingly in demand, critical for things like weather forecasting, port operations, national security, seafood operations, water quality management and much more. OTT enables a more widespread and deeper understanding of our ocean, coasts, and Great Lakes by sponsoring technologies that address known gaps and needs, expanding opportunities for gathering vital data and increasing tools available to end users to support research, further development, and decision making.

U.S. IOOS anticipates making up to six awards for up to $400,000 per year per project, for projects lasting between one and three years subject to availability of funds. Letters of intent are recommended, but not required, and must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EDT) on April 27, 2026. Full applications are due by 11:59 PM (EDT) on July 15, 2026.

Key Dates

• NOFO Publication Date: March 12, 2026
• Letters of Intent (recommended but not required) submission deadline: 11:59 PM EDT, April 27, 2026
• Full Application submission deadline: 11:59 PM EDT, July 15, 2026
• Anticipated selection notification date: September 2026

Additional Information

• Access the full funding opportunity on grants.gov: https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361483
• Find additional information on the IOOS funding opportunities page
• Find out more about OTT on the program page