Eric and Wendy Schmidt Transformative Technology Fund
Internal — Princeton University only
Eric and Wendy Schmidt Transformative Technology Fund supports Princeton researchers in inventing, developing, and innovatively applying technologies to transform natural sciences and engineering research.
Browse similar grants
Funder: Princeton University
Due Dates: August 10, 2026 (Call announced) | November 6, 2026, 11:59 p.m. (Submission) | April 1, 2027 (Anticipated decisions)
Funding Amounts: Up to $500,000 per project, normally over one or two years
Summary: Supports the invention, development, and innovative application of technology that can transform natural sciences and engineering research.
Key Information: PIs and co-PIs must hold an eligible faculty, research scholar, or senior professional specialist appointment at Princeton.
Description
The Eric and Wendy Schmidt Transformative Technology Fund supports Princeton research that invents disruptive technologies, develops equipment or enabling technologies, or applies new technologies in innovative ways. Projects should have the potential to transform a research field, solve complex research problems, open new avenues of inquiry, or significantly enhance existing research methods.
Established in 2009 through a $25 million endowment from Eric and Wendy Schmidt, the Fund encourages risk-taking, recognizing that ambitious projects may yield major rewards but may also fail. Its scope spans computer and information science, earth sciences, engineering, life sciences, and physical sciences, including related engineering disciplines. Princeton’s Office of the Dean for Research administers the program, with faculty peer review informing funding recommendations.
