The Engineering Research Initiation (ERI) program by the National Science Foundation aims to support new academic investigators in engineering who haven't received much federal research funding yet. It's designed to help them start their research and grow in their careers. However, it excludes those from top-tier research institutions.
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 kickstart their projects.
More details
Likely Disqualifiers
- Affiliation with a 'very high research activity' R1 institution
- Having received significant research funding from federal agencies previously
What You May Need
- Proof of affiliation with an eligible institution
- Research proposal
- Budget plan
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume
- List of current and pending support
- Letters of support or recommendation
- Institutional approval or endorsement
- Completed application forms
- Registration with NSF systems
Cautions
- Applicants from 'very high research activity' R1 institutions are not eligible.
- Ensure all application materials are complete and submitted by the deadline.
- Verify your institution's classification before applying.
Generated from official source details for readability
Eligibility
Eligible Applicant Types
Additional Criteria
Eligible applicants are new academic investigators in engineering who are not affiliated with 'very high research activity' R1 institutions, as defined by the Carnegie Classification. This program is designed for those who have not yet received significant research funding from federal agencies.
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 kickstart their projects.
Likely Disqualifiers
- Affiliation with a 'very high research activity' R1 institution
- Having received significant research funding from federal agencies previously
Use of Funds
The funds can be used to support the initiation of research programs, including expenses related to research activities, personnel, equipment, and materials necessary for the project.
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
- Last Updated
- Jul 18, 2026
Application Checklist
- Verify your institution's classification is not 'very high research activity' R1.
- Prepare a detailed research proposal.
- Draft a budget plan for the proposed research.
- Update your CV or resume.
- Gather letters of support or recommendation.
- Obtain institutional approval or endorsement.
- Complete all required application forms.
- Register with NSF systems if not already done.
- Submit the application before the deadline.