The **Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) Program** by the National Science Foundation (NSF) seeks to enhance access to shared scientific and engineering instruments critical for research and training. This program funds the acquisition or development of multi-user research instruments that are too costly for other NSF programs. It aims to build institutional research capacity, foster innovation, and support the development of next-generation instruments.

Proposals fall into three tracks based on funding levels and focus: **Track 1** (requests between $100,000 and $1.4 million), **Track 2** (requests from $1.4 million up to $4 million), and **Track 3** (helium conservation/reduction equipment requests up to $4 million). Institutions may submit up to four proposals annually: two for Track 1, one for Track 2, and one for Track 3. Proposals are encouraged from underrepresented groups, emerging research institutions, and geographically underserved areas to broaden participation in STEM fields.

The program allocates approximately $75 million annually, funding around 100 awards. Cost sharing requirements are waived for five years starting FY 2023, and voluntary cost sharing is prohibited. Funded projects must result in operational instruments by the end of the grant period. Acquisition projects typically span three years, while development and helium-related projects may take up to five years.

Eligible applicants include U.S.-based higher education institutions, non-profit research organizations, and consortia involving these entities. For-profit entities may participate as subawardees but cannot apply directly. Proposals must detail the technical and scientific rationale, broader impacts, management plans, and the operational commitment for the proposed instrumentation. Institutions must demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in their proposals.

Proposals must be submitted through Research.gov or Grants.gov during specified submission windows, typically between October and November annually. Proposals undergo a rigorous merit review process based on NSF’s Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts criteria, alongside specific requirements for this program. Proposals should also address collaboration plans and provide relevant vendor quotes, management strategies, and supplementary documentation.

The MRI program aims to advance scientific and engineering research frontiers, including fostering U.S. leadership in microelectronics and helium conservation. By investing in cutting-edge instrumentation, the program also promotes research training for students and builds long-term institutional research capacity.