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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the title of this funding opportunity?

The funding opportunity is titled "Nonproliferation Policy Education Center."

What is the Funding Opportunity Number?

The Funding Opportunity Number is HQ0034 11 1 0003.

Which federal department is offering this opportunity?

This opportunity is offered by the Department of Defense (DoD).

What security problem is this grant trying to address?

The supported research focuses on reducing a major nuclear security risk: the possibility that nuclear weapons could be lost, stolen, or otherwise fall under the control of unauthorized non-state actors, including groups that might be willing to use them.

When does the risk of losing control of nuclear weapons become most acute, according to the announcement?

The announcement describes the risk as becoming most acute during periods of internal instability, especially when a central government weakens or loses authority over nuclear forces, weapons storage sites, or the broader nuclear weapons complex.

What type of research is the government looking to support?

The opportunity supports research aimed at building a stronger, historically grounded understanding of what happens inside nuclear-armed states when they experience turmoil, and how nuclear control might be challenged during real-world breakdown scenarios.

What actors does the grant description say should be studied during crisis conditions?

The description emphasizes studying both state actors (such as military leaders, security services, political factions, and officials responsible for nuclear command and control) and non-state domestic actors (such as insurgent groups, militias, criminal networks, or other organized movements).

Which countries are highlighted as being of particular interest?

The announcement highlights particular interest in countries viewed as potentially adverse or high-risk, including nuclear-armed states such as Pakistan and North Korea, major powers like China, and potential future nuclear aspirants such as Iran. It also mentions other possible cases including Egypt and Algeria.

What gap in the existing literature does this project aim to address?

The announcement states that existing work is fragmented and often limited to short generalized essays, contemporary policy analyses focused on a single country, or historical narratives limited to one case at a time. It identifies a need for a comprehensive, in-depth, comparative, country-by-country study that draws lessons across multiple historical episodes.

What kind of approach does the opportunity encourage (single-case or comparative)?

The opportunity emphasizes a systematic comparative approach across multiple historical episodes and national experiences, with the goal of extracting actionable lessons.

What kinds of situations or scenarios are explicitly in scope?

The announcement points to situations such as political crises, civil conflict, regime change, or other forms of domestic upheaval where control over nuclear arsenals and associated facilities could be stressed or challenged.

What is the overall objective of the research findings?

The described objective is to anticipate how nuclear control might be challenged and to identify practical steps that could prevent loss of custody or unauthorized use during instability.

Is this opportunity discretionary?

Yes. It is described as a discretionary opportunity.

What is the program or assistance listing (CFDA) associated with this opportunity?

The opportunity references CFDA 12.300, Basic and Applied Scientific Research.

What is the primary focus area identified for this grant?

The focus is identified as Science and Technology / research and development.

What funding instrument type is used?

The funding instrument type is listed as a cooperative agreement and grant.

Does the listing suggest any government involvement beyond typical grant funding?

Because a cooperative agreement is included as an instrument type, the framework indicates the government may expect coordination or involvement typical of cooperative agreements, while still supporting research activities.

How many awards were expected?

The opportunity anticipated a single award (Expected Awards: 1).

What is the estimated total funding amount?

The estimated total funding amount is $199,898.

What is the award ceiling?

The award ceiling is $199,898.

What is the award floor?

The award floor is $19,989.

Is cost sharing or matching required?

No. The announcement states there is no cost sharing or matching requirement.

Is this an open competitive opportunity for any eligible applicant?

Based on the eligibility language provided, it does not read like an open competition. Although the general field references "Others (see text field entitled Additional Information on Eligibility for clarification)," the eligibility information specifies that the award will be made to the Nonproliferation Policy Education Center, Inc.

Who is identified as the award recipient in the eligibility information?

The eligibility information states that the award will be made to the Nonproliferation Policy Education Center, Inc.

What prior framework or announcement is this award action tied to?

The eligibility information indicates the award is based on a Broad Agency Announcement (HQ0034 ONA 09 BAA 0002).

When was the opportunity posted and created?

The announcement was posted and created on August 30, 2011.

What was the closing date for this opportunity?

The original and current closing date listed is September 13, 2011.

When was the opportunity archived?

The archive date is October 13, 2011.

Who is the point of contact listed for access issues?

The point of contact for access issues is Natalie Melomed, Contract Specialist.

What contact phone number is provided?

The phone number provided is 703-588-1138.