Industry-University Cooperative Research Centers Program

The Industry-University Cooperative Research Centers Program (IUCRC), administered by the National Science Foundation (NSF), fosters collaboration between industry, academia, and government to support pre-competitive research of national importance. The IUCRC program encourages academic researchers to partner with diverse industry stakeholders, ranging from major corporations and startups to government agencies, in pursuit of high-impact, use-inspired fundamental research. It is specifically structured to catalyze innovative developments that address critical industry needs while preparing a skilled workforce in science and engineering disciplines. The IUCRC’s funding and governance structure is designed to balance public and private investment, with NSF support directed primarily toward administrative and operational costs of the research centers. The program provides financial support through Planning Grants, and Phases I, II, II+, and III, each stage building toward sustainable industry-driven research centers. Planning Grants are used to organize workshops and develop a membership base, while full Phases facilitate long-term collaborative research. Each phase has specific requirements for industry membership and funding contributions. Centers may be single-site or multi-site, with roles for Lead and Partner Sites, all governed by a centralized framework established through Memoranda of Understanding and Center Bylaws. Industry partners gain voting rights and contribute to the selection and oversight of research projects, thereby aligning outcomes with industry needs. Eligibility to apply is restricted to accredited U.S.-based two- and four-year Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs). Proposals must be submitted by tenured faculty members, although exceptions may be granted with prior NSF approval. Applicants must first submit a preliminary proposal to be considered for a Planning Grant or to request a waiver of that stage. Once a Planning Grant is awarded, recipients must complete a Boot Camp and Planning Workshop to establish a research roadmap and secure financial commitments from potential members before submitting a full proposal for a Phase I center. Applications must be submitted via Research.gov or Grants.gov, and each site in a multi-site center must submit its own proposal. The application process includes detailed project descriptions, budget justifications, and various supplementary documents such as Letters of Financial Commitment, Membership Certifications, and a Memorandum of Understanding. Proposals are evaluated using NSF’s standard merit review criteria of intellectual merit and broader impacts, along with additional IUCRC-specific criteria like industry commitment, economic potential, and past performance. Funding awards are made as either standard or continuing grants. Planning Grants offer $20,000 for up to 12 months. Phase I and II centers receive $150,000 and $100,000 per site annually, respectively, with Phase II+ centers eligible for $150,000 annually if they meet higher membership thresholds. Centers may proceed to Phase III, which offers $50,000 annually, provided they were funded under prior solicitations and demonstrate sustainability. Supplemental funding may also be available to support education and training initiatives, including internships, teacher engagement, and veteran participation. Program officers across various NSF directorates, such as Engineering, Computer and Information Science, Geosciences, and Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences, serve as key contacts. Prospective applicants are advised to consult the program website and reach out to the relevant program officer to confirm current eligibility and topic alignment. The solicitation mandates ongoing reporting requirements, and centers are expected to become self-sustaining by the end of their funding term.