Driving University Impact: Expanding the Public Exchange Network
This grant from the Social Science Research Council helps top U.S. universities launch Public Exchange programs to turn research into real-world solutions for urgent societal challenges.
Funder: Social Science Research Council
Due Dates: Rolling (applications reviewed as received)
Funding Amounts: Up to $300,000 over two years (executive director compensation subsidy); covers 75–80% of minimum annual costs for launching a Public Exchange.
Summary: Supports U.S. R1 universities in the SSRC College and University Fund to establish campus-based Public Exchange programs that translate research into real-world impact.
Key Information: Only open to R1 universities that are members of the SSRC College and University Fund.
Description
This grant, administered by the Social Science Research Council (SSRC) with support from the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, is designed to help U.S. R1 research universities join and expand the Public Exchange Network. The initiative aims to bridge academic research with practical solutions by fostering partnerships between universities and government, nonprofit, and industry organizations. The program provides substantial resources—including funding, training, and access to a collaborative national network—to enable universities to launch and sustain a Public Exchange on their campus. Public Exchange projects address urgent societal challenges such as disaster recovery, climate resilience, food insecurity, and homelessness prevention.
