The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) announced 34 semifinalists for the first-ever NSF Regional Innovation Engines (NSF Engines) competition, spanning nearly all key technology areas and societal and economic challenges highlighted in the CHIPS and Science Act. The list of NSF Engine semifinalists, map of the NSF Engines semifinalists, and additional details are on the NSF website. NSF released the list of NSF Engines program semifinalists to transparently encourage teaming among diverse organizations, innovation, and regional growth.
NSF Engines Program
Launched by the NSF Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP), the NSF Engines program envisions fostering multiple flourishing regional innovation ecosystems across the country, providing a unique opportunity to spur economic growth in regions that have not participated in the technology boom of the past few decades. These robust partnerships should positively impact regional economies, address societal challenges, advance national competitiveness, and create local, high-wage jobs across the country. The program is anticipated to be transformational for the nation, ensuring the U.S. remains globally competitive in key technology areas for decades to come.
Awards
Universities, nonprofits, businesses, and other organizations from across U.S. states and territories will lead the NSF Engines. Each NSF Engine could receive up to $160 million over 10 years. The NSF Engine’s status and overall progress will be assessed annually to determine actual amounts.
NSF initially received 188 concept outlines for NSF Engines which it narrowed down to the 34 semifinalists. NSF anticipates announcing the final list of NSF Engines awards this fall, with each awardee initially receiving about $15 million for the first two years.
Not selected?
Semifinalists not selected to receive an NSF Engine award may be considered for an NSF Engine Development Award of up to $1 million over two years. These planning awards help teams build their initial ecosystems, cultivate the necessary partnerships, and potentially compete for additional funding, including through future NSF Engines competitions. Learn more about the review process by reading the funding opportunity.
