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Targeted Federal Match
TIO is now accepting applications for the Targeted Federal Match solicitation, the first under the state’s new Research, Development & Deployment (RD&D) Fund. It is dedicated to matching funds for a defined set of priority federal programs that align with the state’s technology and innovation priorities and target sectors. State matching funds are available for projects that secure at least $1 million in non-state funding.
At-a-glance:
- What this is: An always-open (rolling) solicitation that uses Research, Development and Deployment (RD&D) Fund grants to match or otherwise leverage funding from priority federal programs into New Mexico projects.
- Instrument: Grants only.
- Who can apply: A New Mexico public entity, or a business registered to do business in New Mexico (or that commits to register before any funds are disbursed).
- Minimum RD&D Fund grant: $1,000,000 per award.
- Minimum non-State funding: $1,000,000 per project.
- How it works: Apply or otherwise pursue non-State funding; TIO runs a light eligibility and RD&D-fit screen; TIO issues a commitment letter you attach to your application or other proposal; TIO reserves the funds and disburses them only if you win the outside award or funding.
- Deadlines: Applications are accepted and decided on a rolling, first-come, first-served basis for as long as funding remains available.
- Target turnaround: Within 20 working days of a complete application. TIO offers an expedited option in the case of documented exigent circumstances.
Priority Federal Programs
This list identifies the priority federal programs eligible under the Targeted Federal Match solicitation. It favors competitive RD&D programs with near-term deadlines and strong New Mexico fit. Programs may be added at TIO’s discretion, including but not limited to at an applicant’s or other external party’s suggestion.
| Program | Lane | What the Fund provides | Status / next date |
| NSF X-Labs | Advanced computing / quantum, sensing | Leverage / de-risking (no required match) | Open: topics due Jul 24 & Jul 13 |
| DOE Critical Minerals & Materials Accelerator | Clean energy & water (geothermal) | 20% cost-share | Open: Topic 3 due Jul 23 |
| NSF SBIR/STTR Strategic Breakthrough (NSF 26-510) | Deep tech (all lanes) | 100% match; State $ qualifies | Open: due Jul 27 & Nov 4 |
| NASA CCRPP | Aerospace & space | Matched investment; State $ qualifies | Open: apps due Aug 19 |
| DoD STRATFI / TACFI | Aerospace, advanced computing | Government-match leg (State grant) | Recurring: PY26.1 |
| DOE Genesis Mission | Quantum, microelectronics, nuclear, materials | 20% cost-share (Phase II) | Phase II due Dec 17 (FY26 Ph I awardees) |
| DoD Strategic Breakthrough Awards | All lanes | 100% match; State $ qualifies | Pending (not yet posted) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a deadline?
No. This is a standing solicitation. TIO accepts and decides applications on a rolling, first-come, first-served basis for as long as funding remains available.
Do I have to bring my own matching money?
The RD&D Fund grant is itself the match or leverage you bring to your federal application, so you do not need separate State match. You do need to (1) show that the federal program either requires or rewards a match, or explain how State support improves your odds of winning, and (2) secure at least $1,000,000 in non-State (e.g., federal) funding for the project. The minimum total project cost is $2,000,000, split at least $1,000,000 from the RD&D Fund and at least $1,000,000 from the outside funder.
How much can I request?
At least $1,000,000. There is no fixed maximum, but TIO mirrors the funder’s cost-share rules and may negotiate the amount before issuing a commitment.
How fast will I hear back?
TIO targets a decision within 20 working days of a complete application. If a deadline forces a faster turnaround, ask for expedited review and include documentation of the exigent circumstances.
What does the commitment letter actually do?
You attach it to your application to show your match is reserved. It is a conditional reservation, not a guarantee: TIO disburses only if you win the underlying award and meet the conditions set out in the solicitation’s commitment-letter section.
What if more than one New Mexico team applies to the same federal program?
TIO does not pick a single “best” New Mexico applicant. Each eligible team may receive a commitment, subject to available funds and TIO’s discretion to negotiate amounts.
Can a university or national lab apply?
Yes, and they may lead. TIO encourages industry-led applications with national lab and/or university partners where appropriate and weighs commercialization and in-state economic impact. Leadership by a public research institution alone is not a basis for denial.
Can I apply before the federal opportunity is decided?
Yes. You can apply in advance of a deadline and while a federal decision is pending; the RD&D commitment is reserved until that process closes.
I’m not registered in New Mexico yet. Can I still apply?
Yes, if you commit to register before any funds are disbursed.
Is SBIR/STTR eligible?
Phase I and Phase II SBIR/STTR are excluded because the State runs a separate SBIR match program. This solicitation carves out a narrow exception for large Strategic Breakthrough Awards.
Will there be other funding opportunities?
Yes. TIO plans a separate Track 2 solicitation broadening eligibility to other non-State public, philanthropic, and private funding, and expects future solicitations using other instruments or focused on specific sectors.
Additional questions? Contact us at info.tio@edd.nm.gov.