The RFF seeks to provide funding to universities and non-profit organizations, such as research consortiums, in the United States.  RFF reserves the right to determine, at its sole discretion, the eligibility of a project for support.


RFF will review proposals on a continual basis.  However, research projects are funded once each year.  All proposals should be emailed to grants@renewablefuelsfoundation.org

Additional information may be requested before an award is finalized. All funding disbursements are based on the nature of the research proposed.  When applying for funds, applicants should include, at a minimum, the following:

• Letter of Inquiry outlining nature of the research, research goals, timeline of work and budget overview. A comprehensive proposal with detailed budget and timeline may also be sent, but is not required initially.
• Evidence of the recipient organization's tax-exempt status (i.e. 501(c)(3) letter).
• Researchers' names and resumes.

The RFF Board of Directors funds those research projects that have clear goals and measurable outcomes with benchmarks that will advance the science of ethanol production. While sound research should be the basis for all grant applications, the RFF will only support projects that directly enhance domestic production of ethanol and the efficient use of co-products. One grant will be awarded for $150,000, of which $75,000 will be made available over two years. Viable projects may qualify for continued funding past this time frame.

Research project proposals must have a national implication, not local. The RFF prefers to fund national model projects, thereby making a bigger impact to the U.S. ethanol market.

Funds are provided for research in, but not limited to, the following areas in these two categories:

POLICY	RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
Economic impact studies Food versus Fuel debate Transportation & distribution Analysis of oil production	Feedstocks for cellulosic ethanol Storage and transportation Environmental impacts of cellulosic ethanol production

The foundation does not provide funds for the following projects or purposes:

1. Salaries, administration, overhead or travel for research projects.
2. Individuals.
3. Political activities which attempt to influence political campaigns or legislation.
4. Plant construction.
5. Access projects such as roads or railways.
6. Loans, endowments, trips, tours, tickets, advertising, promotional events or publications.

PLEASE NOTE: Additional guidelines may exist when applying for funding through specific Renewable Fuels Foundation partnership with other organizations and governmental agencies.

Potential applicants with specific questions about the application process are encouraged to contact the RFF at (202) 289-3835.