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National Science Foundation

Historically Black Colleges and Universities - Excellence in Research

Funds research projects at Historically Black Colleges and Universities, aimed at institutions that have not won NSF's larger competitions.

OpenNational Science FoundationUnited States

This programme exists because Congress asked for it. A Senate appropriations subcommittee report directed NSF to create a route for public and private Historically Black Colleges and Universities, particularly those that had not succeeded in NSF's larger research competitions, to build their research and development capacity in a way that lasts.

What it funds is research projects aligned with NSF…

Research projects at Historically Black Colleges and Universities aligned with NSF's research programmes across science, engineering and STEM education, intended to build lasting research and development capacity and stronger links between HBCU researchers and NSF programmes.

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.20 Oct 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.$28M

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Last verified: 25 Aug 2026Funder reference: 23-598Source: www.grants.gov