FY 2026 Pilot Program for Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Planning: eligibility, deadline, and how to apply (2026)
Key Facts
- Agency
- DOT - Federal Transit Administration
- Award Range
- $28,492,618 in total across about 35 awards
- Deadline
- Closed 2026-07-10
- Time Remaining
- This cycle closed on 2026-07-10. Check grants.gov for the next cycle.
- CFDA Number
- 20.541
The FY 2026 Pilot Program for Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Planning is a federal funding opportunity administered by the DOT - Federal Transit Administration. This guide covers everything you need to know to determine whether you qualify and how to submit a competitive application once the next cycle opens.
Use our free Grant Finder to discover additional programs you may be eligible for based on your organization type and location.
Eligibility requirements
To qualify for the FY 2026 Pilot Program for Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Planning, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Any comprehensive or site-specific planning work proposed for funding under this program must be associated with an eligible transit capital project, namely a new fixed guideway project or a core capacity improvement project as defined in Section 5309(a) of title 49, United States Code. These statutory definitions are also provided in Section 2 of the notice of funding opportunity (NOFO).
Eligibility requirements can change between funding cycles. Always verify the current criteria on the official Grants.gov listing before beginning your application.
Not sure your organization qualifies? Run the free Grant Finder check → or compare other Infrastructure & Transportation programs by who can apply.
How to apply: step by step
- Register on SAM.gov. Every federal grant applicant needs an active SAM (System for Award Management) registration. Allow 2-4 weeks for new registrations to process. Existing registrations must be renewed annually.
- Get a UEI number. Your Unique Entity Identifier is assigned through SAM.gov and replaces the old DUNS number. You will need this on every federal application.
- Review the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). Download the full NOFO from the Grants.gov listing. Pay close attention to review criteria, budget limits, and required attachments.
- Prepare your application package. Most federal grants require a project narrative, budget justification, organizational capacity statement, and supporting documents. Follow the page limits and formatting rules exactly.
- Submit through Grants.gov. Create a workspace, upload all required forms and attachments, and submit once the next cycle opens. The system timestamps your submission, and late applications are automatically rejected.
- Confirm receipt. Keep the tracking number or confirmation email, and check back in 1-2 business days that your application passed the validation checks.
For detailed guidance on writing a winning narrative, see our grant writing tips article.
Grant details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Grant Name | FY 2026 Pilot Program for Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Planning |
| Funding Agency | DOT - Federal Transit Administration |
| CFDA Number | 20.541 |
| Award Minimum | Not published |
| Award Maximum | Not published |
| Deadline | Closed 2026-07-10 |
| Category | Infrastructure & Transportation |
| Matching Required | Yes, this program requires cost sharing or matching funds |
| Application Link | Apply on Grants.gov |
Federal grant budgets and priorities shift each fiscal year. The amounts listed above reflect the most recent funding cycle. For the latest figures, check the official program page.
If you are exploring business financing beyond grants, the team at CeoCult covers loans, lines of credit, and alternative funding for founders.
Check your fit for Infrastructure & Transportation grants like this one before you apply: eligibility, match and registration in one worksheet.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for the FY 2026 Pilot Program for Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Planning?
Any comprehensive or site-specific planning work proposed for funding under this program must be associated with an eligible transit capital project, namely a new fixed guideway project or a core capacity improvement project as defined in Section 5309(a) of title 49, United States Code. These statutory definitions are also provided in Section 2 of the notice of funding opportunity (NOFO). Requirements can change between cycles, so always verify on the official Grants.gov listing before applying.
What is the deadline for FY 2026 Pilot Program for Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Planning?
The current deadline is closed on 2026-07-10; the next cycle has not been posted. Many federal grants operate on annual or rolling cycles. If this deadline has passed, check the Grants.gov listing for the next funding opportunity.
Does FY 2026 Pilot Program for Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Planning require matching funds?
Yes, this program requires cost sharing or matching funds. Matching requirements can vary by fiscal year and applicant type, so confirm with the funding agency before committing resources.