GlobalX Challenge 26.1: AI-Native Air Interface for Tactical Communication Networks

The purpose of the GlobalX Innovation Challenge is to accelerate the traditional knowledge generation cycle, rapidly testing applied research theories to enable the discovery of revolutionary dual-use capabilities for the benefit of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, the commercial marketplace, and the public. Led by the Office of Naval Research Global and targeted at researchers in the Indian subcontinent, this challenge addresses a joint Naval need and seeks to deliver outcomes of value to both the U.S. and India. The expected results are promising, potentially game-changing applied concepts whose maturity may be further advanced through separate follow-on technology development efforts.

Program Details

Office of Naval Research is a federal agency that offers the GlobalX Challenge 26.1: AI-Native Air Interface for Tactical Communication Networks grant program to support rd grants and research innovation. This funding opportunity is available nationally and is administered by Office of Naval Research through Grants.gov. Organizations seeking funding for rd grants and research innovation should review the details below and confirm their eligibility before preparing an application.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include eligible organizations. Organizations that meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply and to review the full program guidelines before submission. Because eligibility rules and funding priorities can change between cycles, applicants should always confirm the current requirements with Office of Naval Research or on Grants.gov before investing time in an application.

Funding and Timeline

Funding available: $0 – $500K. The application deadline is August 31, 2026 (35 days remaining). Applicants should allow sufficient time to gather required documentation, including organizational information, project descriptions, budgets, and supporting materials as specified in the program guidelines. Submitting a complete application well ahead of the deadline reduces the risk of disqualification on technical or administrative grounds.

Program Focus

This grant supports rd grants and research innovation. This grant is associated with NAICS industry classifications: 541715. Organizations operating in these sectors are encouraged to review eligibility. Funded projects are expected to demonstrate measurable outcomes aligned with the program's stated objectives. Grant recipients may be required to submit progress reports and final evaluations as a condition of the award, and to retain records for audit and compliance purposes.

How to Apply

Eligible organizations can apply through Grants.gov. Create a free organization profile on GrantRegister to see whether this grant matches your organization's NAICS code, entity type, location, and focus area, and to receive a weekly digest of every open grant you qualify for.

GrantRegister maintains a complete, authoritative registry of US federal, state, and foundation grant opportunities — matched automatically to your organization profile and delivered every Monday.

Eligibility

• Programs related to applied research

Award details

Award range: $0 – $500K. Applications close on August 31, 2026 (35 days remaining).

Categories

Rd Grants · Research Innovation