Historically Black Colleges and Universities - Excellence in Research
A program supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to enhance research capabilities, aligning projects with NSF research programs.
Funder: U.S. National Science Foundation
Due Dates: July 8, 2027 (Required letter of intent) | October 19, 2027 (Full proposal)
Funding Amounts: $28 million estimated program funding for 35 expected awards; project budgets and durations reflect research needs
Summary: Supports research aligned with NSF programs to strengthen research capacity at Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Key Information: Only accredited HBCUs may apply; the PI must be a full-time faculty member or researcher at the submitting HBCU.
Description
The HBCU Excellence in Research (HBCU-EiR) program supports research projects that build sustainable research and development capacity at public and private Historically Black Colleges and Universities. It particularly seeks to provide opportunities for HBCUs that have not been successful in larger NSF Research & Related Activities competitions. Projects must align with NSF research programs, and interdisciplinary proposals are welcome.
Managed by NSF’s Office of Integrative Activities in collaboration with representatives from NSF directorates, the program connects HBCU researchers with core disciplinary research programs. Awards are intended to advance the PI’s research, improve research opportunities for students, and strengthen institutional research capacity. Results should position researchers to pursue subsequent funding through NSF’s discipline-specific programs.
