The National Academies
09/09/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/09/2025 09:06
Finalists Announced for $50 Million Award to Support a Safer, More Resilient, and Sustainable Future for the Gulf Coast Region
The Gulf Futures Challenge received 164 applications from organizations based in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas. Each entry was subject to participatory reviews and multiple rigorous evaluations by experts from science, engineering, and medicine. The finalists collectively represent all five states along the Gulf Coast and were selected based on four key criteria: whether they were impactful, bridging knowledge to action, innovative, and inclusive in their proposed approaches.
Each of the 10 finalist teams will receive an initial project development grant of $300,000 and technical assistance to strengthen their proposals. After submitting revised applications, two finalists will be awarded $20 million each to implement their solutions. The remaining eight will be eligible for up to $875,000 in additional project development support.
"The broad range of projects reflected in these bold proposals demonstrate the power that science, engineering, and medicine can bring to drive transformative change in the Gulf," said Marcia McNutt, president of the National Academy of Sciences. "The work of these teams will not only advance solutions, but also build a more resilient and durable future for Gulf communities."
The Gulf Futures Challenge is managed by Lever for Change, a nonprofit affiliate of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation that leverages its networks to help donors find and fund bold solutions to the world's biggest problems. All 10 finalist proposals will be added to Lever for Change's network , which offers ongoing learning and networking opportunities to expand the impact of their work, raise their visibility, and increase their potential to secure funding.
"Research in motion drives theory into practice and delivers lasting solutions," said Kristen J. Molyneaux, president of Lever for Change. "These 10 teams reflect the ingenuity and determination of the Gulf region, and we are honored to help amplify their visions for a healthier, more sustainable future."
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