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National Science Foundation

National Science Foundation Translation to Practice

Funds the step between a laboratory result and something people use — $600,000 to $2 million, with partners from outside academia.

OpenNational Science FoundationUnited States

NSF's Technology, Innovation and Partnerships directorate exists to move research into use, and this is its general translation programme. The premise is that discoveries reach society through winding routes rather than a straight line, and that use-inspired research needs its own funding rather than being an afterthought to basic work.

Four goals sit behind the programme: supporting use-inspired

Use-inspired research and translational activity moving discoveries from laboratory to practice in any field NSF supports, in three tracks marking different starting points, with partnerships across industry, government, philanthropy, open-source ecosystems and the non-profit sector.

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.17 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.$30M

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Last verified: 25 Aug 2026Funder reference: 25-540Source: www.grants.gov