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NSF STRIDE Ventures

STRIDE Ventures: AI Efficiency Challenge

Funds practical AI and machine learning software translation toward efficient deployment and societal use.

The STRIDE Ventures AI Efficiency Challenge is the second competition under the STRIDE Ventures initiative, launched in May 2026 by NSF's Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP) and operated by Start2 Group under an NSF cooperative agreement. The challenge seeks translation-ready, primarily software-based solutions that deliver measurable efficiency improvements across AI and…

Funds primarily software-based solutions that measurably improve AI and ML efficiency — including MLOps, edge computing, energy-aware data center management, and agentic orchestration — reducing training and inference costs.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.One-off
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.—
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.—
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.12–24 months
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Prize
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.$21M

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Last verified: 24 Jul 2026Source: www.nsf.gov