The National Science Foundation (NSF) has released Program Solicitation NSF 23-598 for the Historically Black Colleges and Universities - Excellence in Research (HBCU-EiR) program. This program aims to strengthen research capacity at HBCUs by funding projects that align with NSF's core research areas in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), and education. It builds on previous NSF efforts to increase the research and development capacity of HBCUs, with an emphasis on institutions that have faced challenges in larger NSF research competitions.

The HBCU-EiR program supports research projects across all NSF directorates, promoting stronger connections between HBCU researchers and NSF's core programs. Proposals should focus on advancing both intellectual merit and broader impacts, including fostering research opportunities for students and building institutional research capacity. Projects should also align with NSF’s broader mission to promote the progress of science and contribute to societal goals, including diversity in STEM.

The program encourages interdisciplinary research and the inclusion of collaboration with other institutions, though non-HBCU collaborators must be involved through subawards, and their budget share must not exceed 30% of the total project budget. Successful proposals will be reviewed based on intellectual merit, broader impacts, and alignment with NSF priorities.

For further details or assistance, potential applicants are encouraged to contact the listed NSF program officers.