Catalyst for Innovation: Shaping the 2026 DOE Critical Materials Roadmap
- Kristin Cooper
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has launched its public comment process for the 2026 Energy Critical Materials Assessment a foundational element of national strategy under Executive Order 14154: Unleashing American Energy
This initiative represents a significant opportunity for companies and research labs working at the intersection of advanced manufacturing, clean energy, materials science, and strategic supply chains.
Understanding the DOE’s Critical Materials Assessment
The DOE’s Critical Materials Assessment, a pivotal initiative shaping the future of America’s energy, manufacturing, and national security is designed to identify materials essential to the U.S. energy economy such as rare earth elements, lithium, cobalt, and nickel to evaluate the associated supply risks. These materials are vital to enabling electric mobility, grid storage, wind and solar power, and other advanced energy systems.
The DOE is seeking input on a broad range of topics, including material importance, technological dependency, market trends, recycling potential, and supply vulnerabilities. This is not just another federal RFI: it’s a rare opportunity to directly influence national policy, funding priorities, and the direction of America’s clean energy economy.
As the global race for critical materials intensifies, the stakes have never been higher. Rare earth elements, lithium, cobalt, and nickel are the backbone of electric vehicles, grid storage, and renewable power. Securing reliable, resilient, and sustainable access to critical materials is both an economic and national security imperative. As the global clean energy transition accelerates, demand for these materials is expected to grow significantly.
This DOE’s assessment supports:
The development of domestic supply chains
Reductions in reliance on foreign-controlled sources
Expansion of materials innovation and substitution
Strategic investment in recycling and circular economy models
Workforce development and manufacturing competitiveness
The assessment will serve as a cornerstone for future DOE programs, procurement frameworks and energy industrial policy.
How Innovative Companies can Participate
Organizations with insights into material use, research, production, or supply chain dynamics are encouraged to respond to the DOE’s Request for Information (RFI), open through July 25, 2025.
Companies that choose to participate will be well-positioned to:
Influence national policy direction and funding strategies that will drive billions in federal investment
Shape the priorities of upcoming grant solicitations
Positioning their organization as a leader in the next era of energy and manufacturing.
Strengthen their reputation as thought leaders and innovation partners
Lay the foundation for potential collaboration with federal agencies and research institutions
Gaining early insight into future funding and partnership opportunities.
Timely engagement allows organizations to be at the forefront of future investment and development opportunities.
Why Grant Management Associates (GMA)?
Grant Management Associates (GMA)Â is a nationally recognized advisory firm with a long track record of helping clients secure competitive federal funding and engage with high-impact policy initiatives. We support:
Corporations in clean tech, manufacturing, and energy sectors
Research universities and national laboratories
Startups and technology developers advancing critical material solutions
Nonprofits and consortia working on sustainability and supply chain initiatives
With decades of experience navigating complex federal processes, GMA delivers:
Expert Guidance: We decode DOE requirements and translate them into clear, actionable strategies tailored to your strengths and their initiatives.
Strategic Positioning: Our team ensures your response stands out, aligning your input with national priorities and maximizing your influence.
Comprehensive Support: From technical interpretation to drafting high-impact submissions, we handle the details so you can focus on your mission.
The Window Is Closing—Act Now
The DOE’s Request for Information is open only until July 25, 2025. Early engagement is critical to secure your place at the table and shape the future of American energy leadership.
Ready to Lead? Let’s Get Started.
Organizations interested in participating in the DOE’s Critical Materials Assessment or positioning for future related funding opportunities are encouraged to contact us directly.
Grant Management Associates (GMA)
Phone: (530) 228-4499
Website:Â www.grantmanagementassoc.com
We welcome the opportunity to support your organization’s engagement in shaping the future of American energy leadership.