Notice of Intent: Research Challenge Grant RFP
Forecasted
The Notice of Intent: Research Challenge Grant RFP funds major STEM research projects at West Virginia four-year institutions to boost research capacity and competitiveness for federal grants.
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Funder: West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission Division of Science and Research
Due Dates (Anticipated): December 2026 (Full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Total program funding: $1,680,000 (all awards, FY28 cycle); typical award up to $1.3M over 4–5 years; 2–3 awards expected
Summary: Supports large, STEM-focused research projects at West Virginia four-year institutions to build research capacity and enhance competitiveness for major federal STEM funding.
Key Information: Official RFP to be released October 2026; eligibility, requirements, and procedures will be detailed in the RFP.
Description
The Research Challenge Grant, administered by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission Division of Science and Research, is designed to strengthen the research competitiveness of West Virginia’s four-year higher education institutions. The program funds large, multi-year STEM research projects that can lead to the establishment of research centers, increased research capacity, and improved ability to secure external funding from major federal agencies. The grant program is closely aligned with the National Science Foundation’s EPSCoR RII: E-RISE program, supporting projects that position West Virginia researchers for success in national STEM research competitions.
The FY28 cycle is projected to launch with a Request for Proposals (RFP) in October 2026. This advance notice allows prospective applicants to begin preparing for the competitive application process. All detailed eligibility requirements, application instructions, and evaluation criteria will be provided in the forthcoming RFP.
