Frequently asked questions

What kinds of technology solutions were you looking for?

Priority areas for solutions included business process modernization, workflow automation, digital-first documents, and tools that reduce timeline uncertainty. CEQ was not prescribing any particular technology approach. AI-enabled tools, data integration platforms, document management systems, and others were all welcome. A single solution was not expected to address all areas. See the Resources page for the full list of service delivery standards, minimum functional requirements, and illustrative examples.

Who was eligible to submit solutions?

An entrant could be an individual, group of individuals, or entity. Entities that submit solutions must maintain a primary place of operations in the United States. Individuals that submit solutions must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States. For more information about eligibility, visit the Rules, Terms, and Conditions published on the Permitting Innovators website.

Could entrants submit more than one solution?

There was no limit on the number of unique solutions an entrant can submit. 

How were submissions evaluated?

A panel of expert reviewers evaluated submissions and recommended top-scoring solutions to CEQ. Submissions were scored across five equally weighted criteria: impact, user-centered design, readiness, multi-agency compatibility, and team capacity. Full descriptions of each criterion are on the Evaluation criteria page. Potential entrants were encouraged to reference the Resources page for additional context.

Will the federal government co-invest in or help procure selected solutions?

There is no funding or procurement commitment attached to this program. Permitting Innovators offers the teams behind top-scoring submissions opportunities to engage with federal agencies implementing the Permitting Technology Action Plan — through the Permitting Innovators Expo, the Solutions Catalog, and structured introductions to agencies interested in their solutions. See Program benefits for more information.

This program is focused on federal agencies — is state permitting in scope?

The Permitting Innovators Call for Solutions focused on solutions for federal environmental review and permitting. The relationship between federal and state processes is an important question — and one that may be addressed in conversations and sessions at the Permitting Innovators Expo on July 31, 2026.

Who can I reach out to with other questions?

Please reach out to [email protected].