US Tech Modernization Fund Calls for Proposals on Permitting Tech and AI Projects

July 16, 2026 - 17:52

The federal government's Technology Modernization Fund, or TMF, has issued a new request for project proposals focused on accelerating permitting technology and artificial intelligence adoption across agencies. The fund is specifically looking for what it calls "high-impact and shovel-ready" initiatives that can be implemented quickly.

This latest funding round targets two main areas. First, the TMF wants proposals that streamline environmental and regulatory permitting processes using modern digital tools. Second, it seeks projects that deploy AI to improve government operations, decision-making, and service delivery. Agencies are encouraged to submit ideas that demonstrate clear, measurable outcomes and can scale across multiple departments.

The TMF operates as a centralized pool of money that agencies can draw from to replace outdated IT systems and adopt newer technologies. Since its creation, the fund has backed dozens of modernization efforts, from improving cybersecurity to digitizing paper-based workflows. This new call signals a continued push by the administration to cut bureaucratic red tape and make federal technology more efficient.

Agencies interested in applying must show their projects are ready to launch without lengthy delays. The TMF review board will prioritize proposals that address pressing operational needs and have strong support from agency leadership. The deadline for submissions has not been specified, but officials expect a competitive field given the growing interest in both permitting reform and AI capabilities across the government.