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Milestone-Based Fusion Development Program

Milestone-Based Fusion Development Program — Expansion

Helps research teams and institutions for Milestone Based Fusion Development Expansion in energy systems and fusion research.

OpenDOE Fusion Energy SciencesUnited States

The DOE Fusion Energy Sciences Milestone-Based Fusion Development Program is a public-private partnership modeled on NASA's COTS program that funds private fusion companies pursuing pre-conceptual designs for commercial fusion pilot plants. The original FOA (DE-FOA-0002809) was announced in September 2022 with $50 million designated for the first 18-month performance period. Eight companies were s

Milestone-contingent cooperative agreements for private fusion companies advancing pre-conceptual fusion pilot plant designs through a three-period, five-year public-private partnership modeled on NASA's COTS program.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Multiple per year
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.18–60 months
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Cooperative agreement
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.$25M

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Last verified: 22 Jul 2026Source: science.osti.gov