Historically Black Colleges and Universities - Excellence in Research
Description
The Historically Black Colleges and Universities - Excellence in Research (HBCU-EiR) program was established in response to direction provided in the Senate Commerce and Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee Report (Senate Report 115-139), and is built on prior and continuing efforts by the National Science Foundation (NSF) to strengthen research capacity at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This report provided guidance to NSF to establish the HBCU Excellence in Research program "to provide opportunities for both public and private HBCUs, particularly for those who have not been successful in larger NSF Research & Related Activities competitions, in order to stimulate sustainable improvement in their research and development capacity" ( https://congress.gov/congressional-report/115th-congress/senate-report/139/1 ). EiR supports such capacity building by funding research projects aligned with NSF's research programs. The program aims to establish stronger connections between researchers at HBCUs and NSF's research programs.
Eligibility
See official grant page for eligibility requirements
Industry Tags
About This Grant
The Historically Black Colleges and Universities - Excellence in Research (HBCU-EiR) program was established in response to direction provided in the Senate Commerce and Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee Report (Senate Report 115-139), and is built on prior and continuing efforts by the National Science Foundation (NSF) to strengthen research capacity at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This report provided guidance to NSF to establish the HBCU Excellence in Research program "to provide opportunities for both public and private HBCUs, particularly for those who have not been successful in larger NSF Research & Related Activities competitions, in order to stimulate sustainable improvement in their research and development capacity" ( https://congress.gov/congressional-report/115th-congress/senate-report/139/1 ). EiR supports such capacity building by funding research projects aligned with NSF's research programs. The program aims to establish stronger connections between researchers at HBCUs and NSF's research programs.
Funding Information
- Estimated Total Program Funding
- $28,000,000
- Expected Number of Awards
- 35
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/348599).
- 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
This opportunity closes on October 20, 2026. Submit at least 48 hours early — portal systems are often slow near closing time.
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 Historically Black Colleges and Universities - Excellence in Research?
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 Historically Black Colleges and Universities - Excellence in Research provide?
The total estimated program funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities - Excellence in Research is $28,000,000.
When is the deadline for Historically Black Colleges and Universities - Excellence in Research?
The application deadline for Historically Black Colleges and Universities - Excellence in Research is October 20, 2026. Submit at least 48 hours early to avoid last-minute portal issues.
How do I apply for Historically Black Colleges and Universities - Excellence in Research?
Apply for Historically Black Colleges and Universities - Excellence in Research through the official grant page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/348599). Confirm your eligibility and prepare your application materials before the deadline.
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