Economics

The Economics Program offered by the National Science Foundation (NSF) is part of the agency’s commitment to enhancing rigorous research and knowledge generation in the field of economics. NSF, an independent federal agency, supports fundamental research and education across all fields of science and engineering. Within the Directorate for Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences (SBE), and more specifically the Division of Social and Economic Sciences (SES), this program aims to deepen the understanding of the processes and institutions of the U.S. economy and the broader global economic system. This program funds research that strengthens both empirical and theoretical economic analysis. Topics of interest include but are not limited to econometrics, economic history, environmental economics, finance, industrial organization, international economics, labor economics, macroeconomics, mathematical economics, and public finance. The NSF encourages interdisciplinary research proposals and joint submissions with other NSF programs or initiatives. It places high importance on proposals that broaden participation by underrepresented groups or institutions that historically have not received significant federal support in economics research. The program provides support for a variety of research activities. These include individual and multi-investigator projects, doctoral dissertation research improvement grants (DDRIG), conferences and symposia, experimental research, data collection and dissemination efforts, computer equipment and instrumentation purchases, and undergraduate research experiences. Proposals for DDRIGs must be submitted by a faculty member on behalf of a graduate student, and are intended to support data collection or fieldwork not typically covered by institutional funding. DDRIGs do not provide living stipends or tuition. All proposals must comply with the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) that is in effect at the time of submission. Proposals can be submitted through either Research.gov or Grants.gov. For DDRIGs in economics, proposers are encouraged to consult with an NSF program officer before submission. Contact information is provided for two program directors: Dr. Nancy A. Lutz (nlutz@nsf.gov, 703-292-7280) and Dr. Nihal Bayraktar (nbayrakt@nsf.gov, 703-292-5074), both affiliated with the SBE/SES. The program accepts full proposals at any time; there is no fixed deadline. While the opportunity is not offered on a rolling basis, it is a recurring opportunity. Applicants are encouraged to check the NSF website regularly for updates. As of the time of publication, the current opportunity remains open and active. Research proposals should clearly demonstrate how the proposed work will advance scientific understanding in the field of economics, particularly through rigorous and innovative methodologies. Proposals must be submitted in accordance with the guidance and conditions posted on or after October 1, 2024, which align with updated OMB guidance issued in April 2024.

Applicants are encouraged to consult a program officer prior to submitting DDRIG proposals and to follow the NSF PAPPG guidelines.