RI-NEST Seed Grant Program
Forecasted
The RI-NEST Seed Grant Program supports Rhode Island academic researchers pursuing early-stage projects aligned with state science priorities, with the aim of developing research that can attract follow-on funding.
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Funder: Rhode Island NSF EPSCoR
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $20,000 for faculty and eligible research staff; up to $7,500 for full-time PhD students
Summary: Seed grants support original Rhode Island academic research with potential for follow-on funding and creative partnerships.
Key Information: Research activities and all listed collaborators must be based in Rhode Island.
Description
The RI-NEST Seed Grant Program is run by Rhode Island NSF EPSCoR through the Rhode Island Network for Excellence in Science and Technology. It helps researchers develop original, early-stage academic projects with strong potential to lead to follow-on funding. Projects must connect to a theme or cross-cutting capability in Rhode Island’s Science and Technology Action Plan.
The program encourages use-inspired work that connects research with needs and audiences across the state. Preferred dimensions include partnerships with government, industry, NGOs, or community organizations; support for Indigenous interests; public science communication; K–12 STEAM participation; and work on coastal resilience, aquaculture, or the blue economy. Involving undergraduate or graduate students and postdoctoral fellows is also encouraged.
