The National Science Foundation (NSF), through its Directorate for STEM Education and the Division of Research on Learning in Formal and Informal Settings, has issued Program Solicitation NSF 25-528: Translation and Diffusion (TD). This program aims to bridge the gap between fundamental STEM education research and its application in PreK–12 classroom practices, fostering a reciprocal flow of insights from both research and practice. By supporting studies on the translation and diffusion of knowledge, the NSF seeks to ensure that scientific insights can be responsibly and ethically integrated into education systems to benefit students and educators across the United States.

The TD program supports four distinct types of proposals: Research on Translation or Diffusion, Proof-of-Concept Research, Synthesis, and Conference/Workshop initiatives. These proposals should advance theoretical and empirical understanding of knowledge translation mechanisms, evaluate the feasibility of applying foundational research in practical settings, critically synthesize existing literature, or bring stakeholders together to strategize next steps. The program encourages multidisciplinary approaches and supports a range of methods, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods research. The typical funding limit is up to $1 million for research and proof-of-concept proposals, $500,000 for synthesis proposals, and $25,000 to $99,000 for conferences, with all projects running up to three years.

Eligible applicants include U.S.-based institutions of higher education (including community colleges), non-profit and for-profit organizations, state and local governments, and federally recognized tribal nations. There are no restrictions on the number of proposals per organization or individual. Foreign entities may participate in cooperative projects, but NSF funds are limited to the U.S. portion. Proposals must be submitted via Research.gov or Grants.gov and comply with NSF’s Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide.

The application process does not require a letter of intent or preliminary proposal, but complete submissions must adhere to detailed guidelines including a project summary with proposal type and keywords, a broader impacts section, and comprehensive data management and sharing plans. Letters of collaboration and personnel listings are also required. Conference proposals require prior consultation with NSF program officers.

Merit review of proposals will consider both intellectual merit and broader impacts, ensuring alignment with NSF’s mission to promote the progress of science and societal benefit. The NSF anticipates awarding approximately 15 grants totaling around $7 million annually, depending on the availability of funds. Proposal deadlines include April 1, 2025, and February 4, 2026, with subsequent cycles recurring annually on the first Wednesday in February.

For inquiries, applicants may contact the program officers: David Daniel (ddaniel@nsf.gov, 703-292-8037), Gregg Solomon (gesolomo@nsf.gov, 703-292-8333), or Lindsay Portnoy (lportnoy@nsf.gov, 703-292-8848).