The Welch Foundation's Catalyst for Discovery Program funds innovative, multidisciplinary chemical research at Texas institutions, supporting high-impact projects across all areas of chemistry and allied fields.
Funder: The Welch Foundation
Due Dates: April 30, 2026 (Full application deadline, 12:00 PM CST) | April 1, 2027 (Application portal opens)
Funding Amounts: Up to $5,000,000 per award over five years; typically, up to two awards granted annually.
Summary: Supports fundamental chemical research at Texas institutions, enabling innovative, high-impact projects across all subfields of chemistry and allied disciplines.
The Catalyst for Discovery Program Grants, offered by The Welch Foundation, are designed to accelerate progress in fundamental chemical research at Texas institutions. This program provides large-scale, flexible funding to multidisciplinary research teams addressing significant scientific challenges with broad societal impact. The program encompasses all subfields of chemistry and allied areas such as biochemistry, chemical biology, chemical physics, chemical engineering, materials, and nanoscience, but excludes direct medical, clinical, or purely biological research. The aim is to empower researchers by minimizing administrative burdens and allowing for innovative, high-risk, high-reward projects.