Infrastructure Innovation for Biological Research (Innovation)
Description
The Infrastructure Innovation for Biological Research Program (Innovation) supports research to design novel or greatly improved research tools and methods that advance contemporary biology in any research area supported by the Directorate forBiological Sciences at NSF. The Innovation Program focuses on research infrastructure that is broadly applicable to researchers in three programmatic areas: Bioinformatics, Instrumentation, and Research Methods. Infrastructure supported by this program is expected to advance biological understanding by improving scientists’ abilities to manipulate, control, analyze, or measure critical aspects of biological systems, which can be essential for addressing important fundamental research questions. Proposals submitted to these programmatic areas can do one of three things to advance or transform research in biology: develop novel infrastructure, significantly redesign existing infrastructure, or adapt existing infrastructure in novel ways. Projects are expected to have a significant application to one or more biological science questions and have the potential to be used by a community of researchers beyond a single research team. Please refer to the descriptions of individual programmatic areas for detailed guidance on what is supported through this solicitation (see links below).
Eligibility
See official grant page for eligibility requirements
Industry Tags
About This Grant
The Infrastructure Innovation for Biological Research Program (Innovation) supports research to design novel or greatly improved research tools and methods that advance contemporary biology in any research area supported by the Directorate forBiological Sciences at NSF. The Innovation Program focuses on research infrastructure that is broadly applicable to researchers in three programmatic areas: Bioinformatics, Instrumentation, and Research Methods. Infrastructure supported by this program is expected to advance biological understanding by improving scientists’ abilities to manipulate, control, analyze, or measure critical aspects of biological systems, which can be essential for addressing important fundamental research questions. Proposals submitted to these programmatic areas can do one of three things to advance or transform research in biology: develop novel infrastructure, significantly redesign existing infrastructure, or adapt existing infrastructure in novel ways. Projects are expected to have a significant application to one or more biological science questions and have the potential to be used by a community of researchers beyond a single research team. Please refer to the descriptions of individual programmatic areas for detailed guidance on what is supported through this solicitation (see links below).
Funding Information
- Award Ceiling
- $800,000
- Award Floor
- $300,000
- Estimated Total Program Funding
- $18,000,000
- Expected Number of Awards
- 40
Eligibility Overview
This opportunity from U.S. National Science Foundation is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Research are especially encouraged to review the requirements.
Federal grant opportunities like this one are typically open to a range of applicant types. Common eligible organizations include:
- Nonprofits and 501(c)(3) organizations
- Small businesses and startups (especially for SBIR/STTR programs)
- State, local, and tribal governments
- Colleges, universities, and research institutions
- Individuals (for select programs in education, arts, and research)
Eligibility requirements vary by opportunity. Always review the official listing before investing time in an application.
How to Apply
- 1
Review the full opportunity
Read the complete Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for this U.S. National Science Foundation program on its official page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/347680).
- 2
Confirm eligibility
Check that your organization meets every requirement set by U.S. National Science Foundation — applicant type, location, registration status, and any prior-award restrictions.
- 3
Prepare required documents
Gather your budget narrative, needs statement, organizational details, SAM.gov registration, and any required certifications.
- 4
Submit before the deadline
Confirm the current deadline on the official listing. Submit at least 48 hours early to avoid technical issues.
Grant Writing Tips
Proposals for research programs such as those from U.S. National Science Foundation are competitive — these tips can strengthen your application:
- ✓Start your application at least 4 weeks before the deadline — rushed proposals score lower.
- ✓Tailor your needs statement to match the funder's stated priorities, using their exact language where possible.
- ✓Have a colleague outside your team review your budget narrative before submitting — fresh eyes catch errors reviewers penalize.
More Grants from U.S. National Science Foundation
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Infrastructure Innovation for Biological Research (Innovation)?
This opportunity from U.S. National Science Foundation is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Research are especially encouraged to review the requirements. Always confirm the full eligibility criteria on the official listing before applying.
How much funding does Infrastructure Innovation for Biological Research (Innovation) provide?
Award amounts for Infrastructure Innovation for Biological Research (Innovation) range from $300,000 to $800,000.
How do I apply for Infrastructure Innovation for Biological Research (Innovation)?
Apply for Infrastructure Innovation for Biological Research (Innovation) through the official grant page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/347680). Confirm your eligibility and prepare your application materials before the deadline.
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