The Smart and Connected Communities (S&CC) program, managed by the National Science Foundation (NSF) under solicitation NSF 25-527, seeks to support high-risk, high-reward research that addresses significant challenges faced by communities across the United States. The program emphasizes creating innovative, intelligent technologies that integrate with natural and built environments, civic institutions, and social systems to improve economic opportunities, safety, health, accessibility to critical resources, and overall quality of life. Research proposals must involve collaboration with community stakeholders to identify pressing community challenges and propose use-inspired, basic research solutions that advance science and engineering.

Eligible applicants include institutions of higher education, non-profit, non-academic organizations, and other entities qualified under NSF's eligibility criteria. Principal Investigators (PIs) and co-PIs must adhere to the program’s participation limits, with individuals restricted to participating in no more than two proposals across all categories within a contiguous 12-month period. Proposals should include partnerships with civic stakeholders to ensure alignment with real-world community needs, and interdisciplinary approaches are strongly encouraged.

The program offers three types of grants: Development Grants, Integrative Research Grants, and Large-Scale Research Grants. An estimated 20 to 40 awards are anticipated each fiscal year, including 10 to 20 Development and Integrative Research Grants, and one Large-Scale Research Grant. The funding level will vary depending on the proposal category, merit, and alignment with program goals, and is contingent on the availability of funds.

Applications must include detailed research plans, clearly defined objectives, and measurable outcomes. Proposals should address community needs, incorporate innovative scientific and engineering methods, and demonstrate plans for knowledge dissemination and community engagement. A strong emphasis is placed on interdisciplinary collaboration, use of advanced technologies, and addressing disparities in resource accessibility.

Key deadlines include a preliminary proposal submission due on February 20, 2025, and a second round on September 8, 2025. Full proposals are expected by April 4, 2025, and November 10, 2025, with annual deadlines on the second Monday of November thereafter. All proposals must comply with the guidelines set forth in the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG).

Applications will be evaluated based on NSF's standard merit review criteria: intellectual merit and broader impacts. Additional solicitation-specific criteria will consider the extent to which the proposed research addresses community challenges, fosters meaningful collaborations, and contributes to societal advancement. Applicants are encouraged to engage directly with program directors for clarification and guidance during the proposal development process.

For further information, applicants can contact program directors such as David Corman (dcorman@nsf.gov), Vishal Sharma (vsharma@nsf.gov), and other listed officials. The full solicitation can be accessed on the NSF website, and applicants are strongly encouraged to review all program requirements before submission.