FY 2026 BUILD NOFO Released – Applications Due February 24, 2026
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The U.S. Department of Transportation has released the FY 2026 Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO).
Funding Available: Approximately $1.5 billion nationwide
Application Deadline: February 24, 2026
BUILD supports roadway, transit, rail, maritime, and aviation projects that improve safety, reduce congestion, and strengthen economic competitiveness.
Key FY 2026 Highlights
- $75 million for planning grants
- $15 million for Areas of Persistent Poverty and Disadvantaged Communities
- Eight merit criteria remain, with updates to the evaluation framework
- Revised policy priorities under the FY 2026 NOFO
BUILD is highly competitive, with a historical national success rate of 9.4%. In FY 2025, only 2 California county-led projects were awarded.
Early project readiness and merit-criteria alignment can significantly improve competitiveness. Over the life of the program, CSAC Grants Initiative (CGI) consultants have achieved nearly double the national success rate on BUILD applications.
Questions or interested in applying?
Contact the CSAC Grants Initiative Team at csacgrantsinitiative@counties.org.