EGLE AAM Statewide Mobility Challenges

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), in partnership with the Michigan Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (OFME), seeks Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions to address critical gaps in environmental monitoring across Michigan. The initiative focuses on two core operational areas: water quality sampling in rivers, lakes, and outfalls (targeted in areas like the Grand River for nutrients, bacteria, and harmful algal bloom indicators) and odor complaint response in dense urban and industrial corridors (targeted in Southwest Detroit for multi-chemical detection and source attribution). The primary goal is to expand real-time sensing, enable flexible on-demand deployment, automate data collection, and integrate calibrated, geo-tagged data into EGLE systems to improve decision readiness and public safety.

Eligible entities include technology developers and mobility companies capable of delivering AAM and UAS solutions. Applicants are not required to be currently based in Michigan but must submit a clear plan for growth within the state. Consistent with federal and state initiatives supporting domestic drone manufacturing, proposals showing a commitment to building and scaling production in Michigan receive priority consideration. All applicants must partner directly with EGLE, demonstrate technological interoperability with existing department assets, and provide matching funds through financial resources or eligible in-kind contributions.

Eligible projects must leverage AAM technologies such as unmanned aircraft systems, advanced modular water probes, or chemical air sensors; solve defined EGLE operational challenges; outline a concrete deployment plan complying with all FAA, federal, state, and local regulations; provide quantifiable economic benefits to Michigan; and demonstrate operational and financial sustainability beyond the initial demonstration phase.

The application period opens January 5, 2026, with departmental information sessions hosted on January 13 and 15, 2026. Proposals must be submitted by February 20, 2026. Applications are evaluated on a best-value basis considering project description, alignment with state AAM and economic goals, team qualifications, system interoperability, cost reasonableness, and matching funds commitments. Selected companies are scheduled to be notified by March 30, 2026.