Opportunity
Simpler Grants.gov #NG-AWP-25-002
FAA Aircraft Pilots Workforce Development Grant Program Solicitation
Buyer
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Posted
May 19, 2026
Respond By
June 23, 2026
Identifier
NG-AWP-25-002
NAICS
611512
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking applications for the Aircraft Pilots Workforce Development Grant Program to address the national shortage of qualified aircraft pilots and unmanned aircraft system operators. - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Procurement Services and Grants Management Division - Program Overview: - Competitive discretionary grant program with approximately $13 million in total funding - About 13 awards expected, each up to $1 million - 24-month performance period per award - Eligible Applicants: - Air carriers, flight schools, accredited educational institutions, labor organizations representing pilots, aviation-related nonprofits, and governmental entities - Products/Services Requested: - Grants to support education, recruitment, scholarships, internships, apprenticeships, curriculum development, and career transition programs for pilots and unmanned aircraft system operators - Special focus on veterans, students, certified flight instructors, and teachers using aviation curriculum - Unique/Notable Requirements: - At least 20% of total funding must support the Willa Brown Aviation Education Program, which must be carried out in counties containing at least one qualified opportunity zone as defined by the Internal Revenue Code - No cost sharing required - Compliance with federal regulations and use of E-Verify - Place of Performance: - Projects must include activities in counties with qualified opportunity zones for the Willa Brown program - FAA is the contracting office
Description
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is accepting applications for the fiscal year 2026 FAA Aircraft Pilots Workforce Development Grant Program. The program aims to attract future aircraft pilots or unmanned aircraft systems operators to the aviation industry across the United States and its territories. At least 20 percent of the total funding will support the Willa Brown Aviation Education Program, which targets counties with qualified opportunity zones. The program is a competitive discretionary grant with an estimated total funding of $13 million and approximately 13 awards expected, each with a maximum funding limit of $1 million for a 24-month performance period.