Technology Project Identification (TPI) Framework 2026 Call for Project Ideas
The North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) Technology Project Identification (TPI) Framework is a new criteria-based process designed to help identify, evaluate, and advance technology projects that support regional mobility, safety, and innovation. The framework emphasizes early collaboration and encourages agencies to bring forward concepts that demonstrate readiness and clear regional benefit.
Through the 2026 TPI Call for Ideas, NCTCOG invites public-sector agencies within the 12-county Metropolitan Planning Area to submit technology concepts that address regional needs, enhance mobility, and support the integration of emerging transportation solutions. Eligible agencies include those located in Collin, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Hood, Hunt, Johnson, Kaufman, Parker, Rockwall, Tarrant, and Wise counties.
A TPI Call for Ideas Workshop will be held in person on February 2, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. to provide an overview of the program, requirements, and submission process.
Background
The Technology Project Identification (TPI) Framework supports the Regional Transportation Council’s long-standing commitment to advancing innovative transportation solutions across North Texas. Through this effort, NCTCOG works with local partners to evaluate and deploy technologies that improve safety, expand mobility options, strengthen system efficiency, and support long-term regional goals.
Previous and ongoing work within the Technology and Innovation Program includes automated shuttles, connected freight corridors, broadband-enabled mobility initiatives, autonomous delivery pilots, connected intersections, and real-time information systems. These deployments highlight the region’s interest in testing practical, scalable innovations that improve transportation outcomes.
The 2026 TPI Call for Ideas builds on this foundation by inviting agencies to submit concepts aligned with one or more of the following emphasis areas.
- Roadway Safety Technologies - Deploying advanced tools to improve road safety
- Food Desert Elimination Supporting access to fresh food through innovative mobility solutions
- Delivery Bots & Drones - Enhancing last-mile delivery with autonomous technologies
- Next-Gen Traffic Signals - Improving traffic flow and safety through smart signal systems
- Autonomous Shuttles - Expanding mobility options through low-speed AV shuttle services. Higher-speed automated shuttles are eligible but will require additional safety review.
Eligibility
To participate in the TPI Call for Ideas, agencies must:
- Be a public-sector entity within the 12-county MPO region
- Identify a transportation need that provides a measurable regional benefit
- Submit a concept with a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 6-9
- Commit to sharing performance data with NCTCOG
- Follow regional Connected Vehicle Systems Interface Guidelines
- Address operations and maintenance needs for long-term sustainability
For additional guidance on Technology Readiness Levels and Connected Vehicle Systems Interface Guidelines, please see the TPI Applicant Information Packet.
TPI Process Overview
The TPI Framework uses a three-step process to bring forward technology ideas.
- Submit Ideas
Agencies complete the TPI Idea Submission Form outlining need, readiness level, concept description, partnerships, location, and estimated costs. - Evaluation
NCTCOG reviews all submissions for eligibility, regional benefit, feasibility, readiness, and alignment with TPI emphasis areas. - Regional Procurement
For selected projects, NCTCOG leads procurement on behalf of local agencies to streamline implementation and reduce administrative burden.
Funding
Approximately $8.7 million in Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) funding is available to support technology projects submitted through the TPI framework. Funding is allocated between the subregions as follows.
| Eastern Subregion Dallas District Share (69%) | $6,003,000 |
| Western Subregion Fort Worth District Share (31%) | $2,697,000 |
| Total Funding Available | $8,700,000 |
Transportation Development Credits (TDCs) will be used in place of a traditional local match, allowing eligible projects to receive funding without requiring local cash contributions.
Schedule
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| October 24, 2025 | STTC Information |
| November 10, 2025 | Public Meeting |
| December 5, 2025 | STTC Action |
| December 11, 2025 | RTC Action |
| January 9, 2026 | Open Call for Ideas |
| February 2, 2026 | Call for Ideas Workshop |
| April 10, 2026 | Close Call for Ideas |
| May 22, 2026 | STTC Information – Submitted Ideas |
| June 11, 2026 | RTC Information – Submitted Ideas |
| June 8, 2026 | Public Meeting |
| June 26, 2026 | STTC Action – Submitted Ideas |
| July 9, 2026 | RTC Action – Submitted Ideas |
| September 2027 | Implementation begins |
Submission Requirements
Agencies must complete the TPI Idea Submission Form, providing the following.
- Project title and summary
- Description of transportation needs and anticipated benefits
- Estimated total cost and requested funding
- Desired implementation year(s)
- Technology Readiness Level (minimum TRL 6)
- Current project status and partnership details (if applicable)
- Identification of public and private-sector collaboration (if applicable)
- Commitment to data sharing and interface guideline requirements
- Supplemental maps, diagrams, or supporting documents (optional)
Submissions for the 2026 TPI Call for Ideas are due by April 10, 2026. Agencies are encouraged to review the TPI Applicant Information Packet and the TPI Idea Submission Form for detailed guidance on requirements and preparation.