About

The U.S. Mission to the UAE is seeking proposals for the Lunar Payload Design Challenge Grant to advance U.S.–UAE cooperation in space exploration and technology development. This initiative is designed as a hands-on, team-based challenge that fosters collaboration among graduate students while enhancing advanced technical skills and problem-solving capabilities required for lunar missions. The program aims to strengthen university-industry-research partnerships, fortify innovation ecosystems, and support research advancement that can lead to potential mission integration in the space sector. By expanding engagement in high-growth sectors of the space economy, this funding opportunity reinforces bilateral strategic interests and supports broader foreign policy priorities. The program features an estimated total funding pool of $300,000, with an award floor of $200,000 and an award ceiling of $300,000 to support eligible project activities over the designated implementation period.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include U.S. and foreign-based not-for-profit organizations—including think tanks, civil society, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)—as well as public and private educational institutions and public international organizations. Commercial, for-profit entities are strictly ineligible to apply for this funding. While organizations are permitted to form coalitions and subcontract with other entities to strengthen project delivery, only a single nonprofit, non-governmental entity may serve as the primary recipient. Evaluation considerations require that the roles, responsibilities, and contributions of all participating entities and subcontractors be clearly defined and justified within the submitted proposal.

Post Date: June 15, 2026