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National Science Foundation

Major Research Instrumentation Program

Funds shared research instruments too expensive for an ordinary grant — up to $4 million to buy one or to build one that does not exist yet.

OpenNational Science FoundationUnited States

MRI exists for the instruments that fall between grants: multi-user kit that is too costly, or simply the wrong shape, for a normal research award. It pays either to acquire an instrument commercially from a vendor, or to cover the people and equipment needed to develop one with capabilities nothing on the market has.

Both halves matter to NSF. Acquisition removes a barrier where fundamental rese

Acquisition or development of multi-user research instrumentation for higher education and not-for-profit research organisations, in any science or engineering field NSF supports, including a dedicated track for equipment that conserves or reduces helium consumption.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Annual
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.16 Nov 2026
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.26 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.$75M

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Last verified: 25 Aug 2026Funder reference: 23-519Source: www.grants.gov