The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) announced up to $23 million in funding to support research and development (R&D) of domestic chemicals and fuels from biomass and waste resources.
January 10, 2025
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3D model of a molecular structure and bio-based fuel close up. Image credits: Getty Images and Adobe Stock.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) announced up to $23 million in funding to support research and development (R&D) of domestic chemicals and fuels from biomass and waste resources. The notice of funding opportunity (NOFO), Sustainable Propane and Renewable Chemicals (SPARC), will support BETO’s Conversion Technologies priorities by advancing innovative technology pathways for affordable fuels and products, leveraging renewable resources and generating domestic jobs to accelerate the U.S. bioeconomy.
The SPARC NOFO supports R&D of domestic chemicals and fuels from a variety of biomass and waste resources. Producing chemicals and propane and/or a mix of gases similar to liquid petroleum gas (LPG) from renewable feedstocks will help to secure domestic supply chains, bolster rural economies, and improve the nation’s global competitiveness in the biotechnology and biomanufacturing industry.
“BETO’s investment in biofuel and bioproduct research will accelerate the development of affordable cutting-edge technologies for chemical and propane production and mobilize the broader use of biomass and waste streams,” said Valerie Sarisky-Reed, director of BETO. “This funding is critical to creating jobs in rural America, boosting our energy independence, and ultimately lowering energy costs for households and other users.”
The SPARC NOFO supports two Topic Areas:
- Topic Area 1: Bio-based Chemicals
- Topic Area 2: Bio-based Propane/LPG
Additional Information & Key Dates
BETO envisions awarding multiple financial assistance awards for this NOFO in the form of cooperative agreements lasting approximately three years.
Required concept papers are due by 5:00 pm ET, on March 14, 2025, and the full application deadline is 5:00 pm ET, on May 30, 2025. An informational webinar for potential applicants of this funding opportunity will be held on January 22, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. ET.
More information on this NOFO and how to apply can be found on BETO’s SPARC funding opportunity page. See BETO’s funding announcement page for other upcoming funding opportunities.
To facilitate the formation of project teams for this FOA, BETO has compiled a Teaming Partner List tool to encourage collaboration and facilitate the formation of project teams applying for this potential funding. The list allows organizations wishing to apply for funding to explore partnering with other prospective applicants. Partnerships can provide additional expertise and resources to successfully meet funding goals. Visit the SPARC funding opportunity page to join the SPARC NOFO teaming partner list.