NSF Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships logo
NSF X-Labs

NSF X-Labs (Quantum + Scientific Instrumentation)

Funds independent research organizations focused on quantum systems and scientific instrumentation breakthroughs.

ClosedNSF Directorate for Technology, Innovation and PartnershipsUnited States
View on funder site
About

NSF X-Labs is a $1.5 billion initiative, announced in May 2026 and led by the NSF Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP), that funds the creation of independent organizations composed of full-time teams of entrepreneurs, technologists, researchers, scientists, and engineers. Unlike standard academic grants, X-Labs awards support new entities specifically designed to pursue t…

What this grant funds

Funds independent R&D organizations pursuing technical breakthroughs in Quantum Systems (Interconnects and Integrated Photonics) or Scientific Instrumentation for Sensing and Imaging.

Key facts
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.—
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Cooperative agreement
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.$1.5B
Funding analytics

Sign up free to see the funding breakdown

Create free accountSign in
Industries

Sign up free to see the industries in scope

Create free accountSign in
Eligibility criteria

Sign up free to see the full eligibility

Create free accountSign in
Timeline

Sign up free to see the timeline

Create free accountSign in
Where founders trip up

Sign up free to see where teams trip up

Create free accountSign in
Last verified: 24 Jul 2026Source: www.nsf.gov