NSF Launches Regional Innovation Engines Program at New Directorate

The National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Directorate for Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships (TIP) has announced the establishment of a new program and funding opportunity called the NSF Regional Innovation Engines, or NSF Engines. This new program – touting its three core functions as use-inspired research, translation of innovation results to society, and workforce development – aims to develop technology and innovation hubs throughout regions of the United States to bolster economic growth and address societal challenges. The NSF Engines program will provide up to $160 million for up to 10 years to establish each Engine and embed them within the ecosystem of local organizations, businesses, educational institutions, and coalitions. This program is the first of its kind being launched by the TIP Directorate, which currently houses popular, established NSF programs such as the SBIR/STTR program, the Convergence Accelerator, the NSF Innovation Corps (I-Corps), and Partnerships for Innovation.

Concept Outlines for the first round of proposal submissions are due on June 30, 2022. More information on the program and submission instructions are available on the NSF website.