Description
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) is issuing a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for FY26 to fund applied research that improves safety, reliability, efficiency, and accessibility of public transportation in the United States. Any responsible non‑federal entity (state or local governments, universities, private firms, non‑profits, etc.) may submit a concept paper responding to one of the listed research topics. Awards are expected to be firm‑fixed‑price, level‑of‑effort contracts ranging from $150,000 to $500,000, with a preference for projects at Technology Readiness Levels 3‑6 (proof‑of‑concept to prototype demonstration). Cost sharing is encouraged but not mandatory. The two‑step selection process includes (1) concept‑paper evaluation (deadline Oct 19, 2026) and (2) invitation to submit full proposals, possibly followed by oral presentations. The BAA emphasizes domestic transit manufacturing, risk reduction, and accessibility improvements. • Open to all responsible sources except federally owned businesses. • Funding limited to $150‑$500 K per award, subject to availability. • Preferred TRL 3‑6; proof‑of‑concept testing is favored. • Two‑step review: concept paper → full proposal → optional oral brief. • Intellectual‑property provisions give the contractor ownership with a paid‑up, non‑exclusive government license.