CFDA 15.073: Earth Mapping Resources Initiative
The primary purpose of the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative is to facilitate new geological and geochemical mapping activities, new geophysical data collection (and obtain associated datasets), and new mine waste research and data gatheri
Objectives
The primary purpose of the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative is to facilitate new geological and geochemical mapping activities, new geophysical data collection (and obtain associated datasets), and new mine waste research and data gathering/acquisition as part of a larger initiative to collect geophysical, geologic, and topographic data in areas of critical mineral potential across the Nation. This effort supports Executive Order 13817 ("A Federal Strategy to Ensure Secure and Reliable Supplies of Critical Minerals"). In order to respond to this Executive Order, the US Geological Survey (USGS) established this initiative to support advanced mapping of the geologic resources of the Nation - with the USGS designated as the lead Federal agency for geologic map data. Additionally, as of FY2022, Earth MRI is now mandated by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (PL 117-58, signed on 11/15/21) - directing the USGS to accelerate efforts to carry out fundamental integrated topographic, geologic, geochemical, and geophysical mapping activities – as well as mine waste research and data gathering - all focused on the assessment of critical minerals. This advanced geologic mapping and airborne geophysics has the potential to significantly close the gap in the essential data needed to enhance economic development and technological innovation, while advancing our understanding of the fundamental ways that geology informs public policy and every aspect of daily life.
Eligible applicants
State geological surveys and related state government agencies may make application for support by a named principal investigator. Due to limited availability of funds to support new external projects, consultation with USGS is strongly recommended prior to submission of applications.
Financial assistance range
Past Fiscal Year (2024): Geologic Mapping/Geochemical Mapping/Geophysics: Range: $211,353 - $4,250,000; Average: $574,940 Mine Waste: Range: $2,283-$353,894; Average: $98,527 Current Fiscal Year (2025): Geologic Mapping/Geochemical Mapping/Geophysics: Range: $330,000 - $4,250,000; Average: $545,320 Mine Waste: Range: $3,868 - $355,615; Average: $123,839 Budget Fiscal Year (2026): Earth MRI solicitation process scheduled to begin early 2026; given that IIJA funding will not be available in FY2026, it is possible that award ranges and averages for FY2026 will be lower relative to FY2025 awards.
Free weekly briefing
New federal grants in your inbox, every week
The Grant Wire is a free weekly briefing of newly-posted NOFOs across Grants.gov, SBIR, NSF, NIH, and more. No spam, one-click unsubscribe.
Reference data sourced from SAM.gov Assistance Listings. The authoritative source for application requirements, deadlines, and award amounts is the official SAM.gov listing linked above. This page is editorial reference, not an official notice.