The Gulf of America Coastal Ocean Observing System (GCOOS) has announced a call for project proposals as part of its preparation for the upcoming five-year proposal to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS). This proposal will cover the funding period from July 2026 to June 2031. GCOOS is seeking ideas from its members and stakeholders throughout the Gulf region to enhance its network and data collection efforts.
Based at Texas A&M University, GCOOS is one of 11 regional observing networks operating under the IOOS framework across the United States. As a nonprofit organization, GCOOS brings together business leaders, marine scientists, resource managers, and various organizations to compile essential ocean data. This information acts much like the data collected by the National Weather Service for weather forecasts, providing timely insights into the Gulf’s coastal and open-ocean waters.
For over 20 years, GCOOS has committed itself to delivering reliable and accurate information that benefits ecosystems, communities, and economies throughout the Gulf region. The organization is eager to incorporate innovative ideas into its proposal, which may come from the public, private, academic, and nonprofit sectors.
While NOAA has yet to officially announce the funding opportunity, GCOOS is proactively preparing its proposal. Selected projects will align with GCOOS’s Strategic Plan for 2020-2025 and its Addendum to the Build-out Plan. These initiatives aim to strengthen and develop a comprehensive ocean observing network across the Gulf of America. Each project idea submitted will undergo a formal review process to evaluate its suitability for inclusion in the final proposal.
Timeline and Submission Information
GCOOS has established a timeline for the proposal submission process. The deadline for Letters of Intent (LOIs) is set for 5 p.m. CT on October 17, 2025. An informational webinar and Q&A session will take place in mid-September, with the exact date to be confirmed. The review period for submitted LOIs will occur from October 20 to October 31, 2025, and notifications regarding inclusion in the full proposal will be sent out on November 1, 2025. Project teams selected for participation will have until November 30, 2025 to complete the necessary sub-award package, including the required budget forms and letters of support.
The anticipated submission date for the GCOOS proposal to NOAA is December 31, 2025, with the expected start date for selected projects being July 1, 2026.
GCOOS is particularly interested in projects that focus on observing platforms and sensors, modeling, and education and outreach initiatives. For detailed information on submission requirements and current GCOOS-funded projects, interested parties can refer to the official GCOOS website.
In its continuous effort to provide reliable data, GCOOS is excited to engage with stakeholders across the Gulf region, integrating diverse perspectives and expertise into its forthcoming proposal.