The National Science Foundation (NSF) Mid-scale Research Infrastructure-1 (Mid-scale RI-1) program, under solicitation NSF 24-598, is designed to support the development and implementation of research infrastructure projects that fall within the mid-scale funding range. This program bridges the gap between the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) program and Major Multi-user Facilities, providing essential support for infrastructure that is too large for individual institutions but not substantial enough to qualify as a major facility. The initiative supports either the design of future research infrastructure or the implementation of mid-scale projects, ensuring that U.S. research capabilities remain globally competitive.

Mid-scale RI-1 specifically funds two categories of projects: Implementation and Design. Implementation projects encompass the acquisition, construction, and commissioning of new or upgraded research infrastructure, with a total project cost ranging from $4 million to just under $20 million. Design projects focus on preparatory activities for future implementation, with funding requests between $400,000 and $20 million. The program strongly encourages participation from diverse institutions, including those in EPSCoR jurisdictions, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs), and other Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs). NSF also emphasizes the importance of broadening participation in STEM, urging project teams to include underrepresented groups and incorporate accessibility considerations.

Eligibility for Mid-scale RI-1 is restricted to U.S.-based institutions of higher education (both Ph.D.-granting and non-Ph.D.-granting), nonprofit organizations involved in research, and consortia of eligible institutions. For-profit entities cannot apply directly but may participate as sub-awardees. Proposals must demonstrate scientific merit, strong technical and management planning, and a well-defined need within the research community. The infrastructure must provide a unique capability that is not currently available and must be operational by the end of the award period.

The application process requires the submission of a preliminary proposal, which must be submitted through Research.gov. The next deadlines for preliminary proposals are November 18, 2024, and September 1, 2026. Full proposals, which are by invitation only, are due June 5, 2025, and February 8, 2027. Applicants must adhere to the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) and include specific documentation such as a Project Execution Plan (PEP) for implementation projects or a Design Execution Plan (DEP) for design projects.

Funding for Mid-scale RI-1 is anticipated to be $100 million per competition cycle, with approximately $50 million allocated per fiscal year. The number of awards is expected to range between 5 and 10, depending on the quality and scope of proposals. Awardees may receive standard grants, continuing grants, or cooperative agreements, with funding typically spanning up to five years. The program also imposes restrictions on cost-sharing and mandates compliance with the Build America, Buy America Act.

For further inquiries, potential applicants can contact Randy L. Phelps at rphelps@nsf.gov or Jonathan Friedman at jfriedma@nsf.gov. More details on eligibility, submission requirements, and program priorities can be found on the NSF website.