The Engineering Research Initiation (ERI) grant from the National Science Foundation is designed to help new academic researchers in engineering get started with their research projects. It's specifically for those who haven't received much federal funding yet and are not part of top-tier research institutions. The goal is to support these researchers in growing their careers and contributing to engineering research.
Who it's for: This grant is for new academic investigators in the field of engineering who are not affiliated with 'very high research activity' R1 institutions. It's ideal for those who are just starting their research careers and need initial funding to kick off their projects.
More details
Likely Disqualifiers
- Affiliation with 'very high research activity' R1 institutions
- Previous substantial federal research funding
What You May Need
- Proof of affiliation with an eligible institution
- Research proposal
- Budget plan
- CV or resume
- Letters of support or recommendation
- Registration with NSF's FastLane or Research.gov
Cautions
- Ensure your institution is not classified as an R1 institution.
- Verify that you have not received significant federal research funding before.
Generated from official source details for readability
Eligibility
Eligible Applicant Types
Additional Criteria
Eligible applicants include new academic investigators in engineering who are not affiliated with 'very high research activity' R1 institutions, as classified by the Carnegie Classification. There are no restrictions on other types of institutions, so applicants from a wide range of academic settings can apply, provided they meet the other criteria.
Overview
This grant is for new academic investigators in the field of engineering who are not affiliated with 'very high research activity' R1 institutions. It's ideal for those who are just starting their research careers and need initial funding to kick off their projects.
Likely Disqualifiers
- Affiliation with 'very high research activity' R1 institutions
- Previous substantial federal research funding
Use of Funds
The funds can be used to support the initiation of engineering research projects. This might include salaries, equipment, materials, and other research-related expenses.
Total Program Funding
$11,000,000
Cost Sharing
Not Required
Important Dates
- Posted
- Jul 17, 2026
- Deadline
- Oct 9, 2026(82 days)
- Archive Date
- Oct 16, 2027
Application Checklist
- Confirm eligibility regarding institution classification
- Prepare a detailed research proposal
- Develop a comprehensive budget plan
- Gather necessary documents (CV, letters of support)
- Register with NSF's FastLane or Research.gov
- Submit application by the deadline