APPLICATION CHECKLIST

Please note that each document must be submitted as a PDF, with the exception of the budget. The budget must be submitted as an Excel file. 

• Project Summary (1 page) - Separate document from the Project Description

• Project Description (up to 5 pages) 

• Overview & scope of work 

• Targeted Activities 

• Project Team & Management 

• Project Timelines 

• Budget (Excel sheet) 

• Budget Justification  

• CV 

• Graduate Student Support (optional if it applies to) 

• Letters of Collaboration (up to 2) 

• Project Evaluation 

• Intellectual Merit & Broader Impacts (This section must be no longer than 2 pages.)

  • Intellectual Merit:

    • Please describe how the research will expand the current knowledge base and literature. What original or transformative concepts does the research present?  

  • Broader Impacts:

    • Please describe how the research will promote the overall welfare of society. This can be fulfilled through the research conducted, activities directly related to the research project, or activities that complement the project. Practical examples of potential societal impact include advancing science for people of all backgrounds; improving the quality of STEM education; increased collaboration between academic institutions, industry, and other stakeholder groups; and greater “economic competitiveness” of the United States. 

      • Scope  

      • The number of stakeholders impacted 

      • Resources 

      • How the project will engage the broader community 

The submission window is now closed.

Individuals interested in this research study must meet the following criteria: 

• Current faculty member, project staff at an accredited Historically Black College or University (HBCU) or Predominantly Black institution 

• Researchers in this area are encouraged, but are not limited to innovation, technology, education, social, economic, and behavioral sciences,  

• Early-career scientists are encouraged to apply.  

Please note that the research team must have at least one principal investigator (PI). The team may also have a co-PI, but this is optional.

Q: What is the grant period?

The grant period for the research study is October 15, 2025 to June 30, 2026.  

Q: What is the preferred format for the proposal?

The preferred format is 11- or 12-point font, Calibri or Times New Roman, single spaced

Q: How can award funding be applied?

Award funding must be applied towards research efforts as the research team deems appropriate. This can include:

• Research activities 

• Related studies 

• Salary* (Only if the position is directly related to the research efforts & the position concludes at the end of the grant period) 

• Student support (optional) 

Q: Who is responsible for submitting the research proposal?

Faculty can submit the research proposal. It does not have to be submitted by the institution’s Office of Sponsored Programs. 

Q: Are fringe benefits and indirect costs included?

Fringe benefits & indirect costs are not required, but if they are included, the team will need to provide the current NICRA rate and may need to provide documentation of the rate if the team receives the award.