BIRD Energy: Up to $1.5M for U.S.-Israel Joint R&D in Energy Technologies

Introduction

Innovation in energy technology is more critical than ever. As the world transitions toward sustainable and secure energy systems, cross-border collaboration and joint research are essential to accelerate breakthroughs. The BIRD Energy program, a cornerstone of U.S.-Israel energy cooperation, provides a powerful funding mechanism for just that. With grants of up to $1.5 million, it supports joint research and development projects between American and Israeli entities in the energy sector.

Whether you are a nimble startup developing the next generation of solar storage or a university lab pioneering advanced biofuels, BIRD Energy offers a unique opportunity to combine the strengths of two innovation-driven nations. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the program, its eligibility criteria, application tips, and why this partnership is a catalyst for transformative technology.

What is BIRD Energy?

BIRD Energy stands for the Binational Industrial Research and Development (BIRD) Foundation’s Energy program. It is a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of Energy, the Israel Ministry of Energy, the Israel Innovation Authority, and the BIRD Foundation itself. The program was established under the U.S. Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, underscoring its strategic importance in promoting energy innovation and independence through international partnership.

Unlike many grants that target a single nation or region, BIRD Energy is explicitly designed for binational collaboration. Each project must involve at least one company from the United States and one from Israel. This structure encourages cross-pollination of ideas, access to diverse markets, and sharing of technical expertise and infrastructure.

Key Funding Details

• Type: Grant
• Funding Range: Up to $1,500,000 per project
• Eligible Entities: Startups, universities, research institutions (must include one U.S. and one Israeli entity)
• Geographic Restrictions: USA and Israel
• Program Opens: June 20, 2026
• Application Deadline: October 6, 2026 (Rolling: No)
• Apply URL: https://birdfoundation.activetrail.biz/BE-Call-for-Proposals

The maximum grant amount of $1.5 million is substantial, allowing for significant R&D efforts and covering costs such as personnel, equipment, materials, and subcontracting. The program typically funds up to 50% of eligible project costs, covering both industrial and academic participants.

Who Should Apply?

Target Audience

BIRD Energy is designed for:

• Startups: Young, innovative companies seeking to commercialize novel energy technologies. For a U.S.-Israel partnership, each side can contribute complementary expertise-for example, a U.S. startup with advanced battery chemistry partnering with an Israeli startup strong in thermal management.
• Universities: Academic researchers pursuing applied energy research. Universities often bring foundational science and testing capabilities, while industry partners provide commercialization pathways.
• Research Institutions: Public or private non-profit research centers can participate, especially as subcontractors or research partners.

Eligible Energy Technology Areas

The program supports a broad range of energy technologies, including but not limited to:

• Renewable energy (solar, wind, geothermal, marine)
• Energy storage (batteries, hydrogen, pumped hydro, thermal)
• Energy efficiency (smart grids, building efficiency, industrial processes)
• Alternative fuels (biofuels, synthetic fuels)
• Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS)
• Nuclear energy (advanced reactors, safety systems)
• Water-energy nexus (desalination, wastewater treatment)
• Cybersecurity for energy infrastructure

Geographic Requirements

Both the U.S. and Israeli partners must be legally established and operating in their respective countries. The project activities must be conducted in the United States and Israel, though some ancillary activities may be performed elsewhere if justified.

Application Process and Deadlines

BIRD Energy follows a competitive, two-stage application process:

1. Preliminary Proposal (due October 6, 2026): A concise proposal outlining the project’s objectives, technical approach, partners, and expected outcomes. This is a critical filter.
2. Full Proposal (if invited): Detailed technical and financial documentation, including work plans, budget breakdowns, IP arrangements, and letters of commitment from partners.

Why Apply to BIRD Energy?

1. Non-dilutive Funding

As a grant, BIRD Energy does not require equity or repayment, making it ideal for early-stage ventures looking to de-risk technology while preserving ownership.

2. Access to Two Innovation Ecosystems

Working with an Israeli counterpart opens doors to Israel’s vibrant startup scene, strong academic institutions, and strong ties to European and Asian markets. Conversely, U.S. partners gain access to America’s vast energy market, regulatory frameworks, and deep research facilities.

3. Potential for Follow-on Investment

BIRD-funded projects often attract additional private investment or government research contracts. The joint nature of the project signals credibility to investors and future partners.

4. Support from Government Agencies

Participants benefit from guidance and networking opportunities from the U.S. Department of Energy and the Israel Ministry of Energy, including potential introductions to pilot sites and regulatory bodies.

Tips for a Strong Proposal

• Define a clear innovation: Explain how your proposed technology addresses a specific energy challenge with a step-change improvement over existing solutions.
• Demonstrate binational value: Show why the U.S.-Israel partnership is essential-e.g., complementary expertise, unique testing facilities, or access to different market segments.
• Outline commercialization path: Even early-stage projects should describe how the technology will ultimately reach the market within 3-5 years.
• Include IP management plan: BIRD Energy requires a clear agreement on intellectual property ownership and rights, so resolve that early.
• Budget realistically: Ensure costs align with project milestones and are justified. Avoid over- or under-estimating.
• Leverage existing relationships: If you already have a partnership with an Israeli or U.S. entity, highlight that. If not, utilize BIRD Foundation’s matchmaking services-they often facilitate intros between suitable partners.

Conclusion

BIRD Energy is a unique, high-impact funding program that combines the best of American and Israeli innovation to solve pressing energy challenges. With up to $1.5 million available per project, it is an attractive option for startups and universities ready to collaborate internationally. The application window opens on June 20, 2026, so now is the time to identify a partner, refine your concept, and start preparing your preliminary proposal.

Don’t miss this chance to be part of the next wave of energy breakthroughs. Visit the BIRD Foundation’s website to read the full call for proposals, access detailed guidelines, and submit your application before the October 6, 2026 deadline.