The Industry-University Cooperative Research Centers (IUCRC) Program, offered by the National Science Foundation (NSF), is designed to catalyze high-impact, pre-competitive research by promoting sustained engagement between academia, industry, and government entities. The IUCRC program enables academic institutions to form research centers that respond to industrial and societal needs through collaborative research projects. These centers facilitate innovation by linking world-class university researchers with industry innovators and government agencies, promoting knowledge transfer and the development of a skilled STEM workforce.

The purpose of the IUCRC program is to foster long-term partnerships that produce breakthrough technologies, enhance the United States’ global leadership in innovation, and train a diverse and skilled science and engineering workforce. Centers are structured to enable cooperative research in emerging technical areas that are strategically important to U.S. industries and to support national competitiveness. Each IUCRC must have a clearly defined research focus, a capable leadership team, and strong participation from academic and industry members. The research performed is pre-competitive, meaning that it is foundational and broadly accessible, enabling industry members to benefit without engaging in proprietary projects during the NSF-supported phase.

The program funds multiple phases of IUCRC development, beginning with Planning Grants, which support the initial steps in center formation. This includes training workshops and planning meetings to engage potential industry members and develop a strategic research agenda. Following successful planning, institutions may apply for a Phase I award (up to five years) to formally launch a center. Depending on membership size and funding levels, centers can transition to Phase II or Phase II+ for another five years, with increased expectations for industry engagement and sustainability. Phase III funding, which is available only to centers that previously received Phase II support, helps them reach self-sufficiency.

Eligibility is limited to accredited U.S. institutions of higher education, including two- and four-year colleges. The principal investigator must be a tenured faculty member unless a waiver is granted. There are no limits to the number of proposals an eligible institution may submit, provided each proposal supports a distinct center. Industry and government entities become members by paying membership fees, which are then used to support research activities. Proposals are evaluated on multiple criteria, including the quality and impact of proposed research, industry engagement, and plans for center operations, diversity, outreach, and sustainability.

Applicants must first submit a preliminary proposal for Planning Grants or Planning Grant waivers. Those encouraged may then submit full proposals through either Research.gov or Grants.gov. Required documents include letters of interest or commitment, membership certification, data management and mentoring plans, and in some cases, memoranda of understanding and joint support letters. Each full proposal must include a comprehensive budget and justification outlining the use of NSF funds and membership fees. Funding cannot be used for IAB travel or expenses.

Merit review criteria emphasize intellectual merit and broader societal impacts. Reviewers assess the quality of proposed research, potential for innovation and economic impact, effectiveness of the governance and sustainability plans, and the ability to attract and retain a diverse industry membership. Centers are expected to provide annual reports detailing research activities, membership engagement, and financial management, including the use of program income. Award decisions are based on standard NSF review processes and are subject to annual performance evaluations.