EPSCoR Research Infrastructure Improvement-Focused EPSCoR Collaborations Program (RII-FEC)
Limited submission
The EPSCoR RII-FEC program supports collaborative STEM research projects involving EPSCoR-eligible jurisdictions to enhance research infrastructure and capacity nationwide.
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Funder: U.S. National Science Foundation
Due Dates: December 15, 2026 (Required letter of intent) | January 26, 2027 (Full proposal)
Funding Amounts: $1,000,000–$1,500,000 award range; $18,000,000 estimated total program funding
Summary: Supports interjurisdictional STEM collaborations that strengthen research infrastructure, workforce development, and sustainable competitiveness in EPSCoR jurisdictions.
Key Information: Projects must include researchers from at least two EPSCoR-eligible jurisdictions.
Description
NSF’s Focused EPSCoR Collaborations (FEC) program, formerly EPSCoR RII Track-2 FEC, supports investigator-driven STEM teams across EPSCoR-eligible jurisdictions. Administered through the Office of Integrative Activities, the program seeks sustainable improvements in research infrastructure, research and development capacity, and competitiveness. Teams must combine complementary expertise and resources to address challenges that participating jurisdictions could not address as effectively or rapidly independently.
Projects integrate research, education, and workforce development within a focus area announced through a biennial Dear Colleague Letter. Priorities include developing early-career faculty, broadening participation, demonstrating community benefits, and sustaining collaborations beyond the award. Participating jurisdictions are expected to contribute to and benefit from the collaboration at levels appropriate to their capabilities.
