The National Science Foundation (NSF) program in "Foundations" is dedicated to supporting research in the mathematical logic and the foundations of mathematics. This includes several key areas such as proof theory, recursion theory, model theory, set theory, and infinitary combinatorics. The program is designed to advance knowledge in these theoretical domains, which are essential to both pure mathematics and its applications in various scientific fields. Researchers working in these specific areas of mathematical logic can apply for funding to support projects that contribute to the foundations of mathematics.

The program also supports conferences and workshops that focus on these areas of mathematical logic. Proposals for conferences, workshops, and similar academic activities need to be submitted at least eight months prior to the event start date. Applicants for these events must refer to the program solicitation “Conferences and Workshops in the Mathematical Sciences” for detailed instructions on preparing and submitting their proposals. The solicitation offers specific guidelines for the format and content of proposals, including critical aspects of planning for summer or winter schools, workshops, and other gatherings in the mathematical sciences community.

For submitting full proposals, applicants should follow the submission guidelines detailed in the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) or the NSF Grants.gov Application Guide, depending on which platform they choose to use. The proposal process is rigorous, and it is the responsibility of applicants to ensure that their submissions comply with all the relevant guidelines. Early submission ahead of the deadline does not exempt applicants from meeting these requirements.

The program is managed by the NSF's Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences (MPS) through the Division of Mathematical Sciences (MPS/DMS). Researchers are encouraged to reach out to program directors, such as Tomek Bartoszynski or Stefaan G. De Winter, for further information or guidance regarding their applications. The next target deadline for submitting a full proposal is September 23, 2025, and this deadline recurs annually on the fourth Tuesday of September.

This grant opportunity is ideal for researchers and academic institutions seeking to advance theoretical work in mathematical logic. By funding both research projects and academic gatherings, the program fosters collaboration and the exchange of ideas, thus contributing to the broader mathematical community.