Project Grant 2433180

This $399,189 federal Project Grant awarded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) under the Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships (TIP) program (CFDA 47.084) supports a collaborative research project titled "EPIIC: Strengthening Collaborative Advancements Leveraging Equitable University Partnerships." The award is a collaborative effort among four diverse institutions - Winston-Salem State University, North Arkansas College, Middle Georgia State University, and St. Vincent College.

The project aims to increase innovation capacity at each institution by growing external and internal partnerships, establishing a more inclusive research and innovation ecosystem, and broadening the participation of a skilled, diverse STEM workforce. Key activities include building industry partnerships, improving alignment of curricula with industry needs, and enhancing educational experiences for undergraduate students. The cohort of institutions will also work to build administrative capacity for sponsored programs and share best practices through cross-cohort knowledge sharing. This award, with a performance period from September 1, 2024 to August 31, 2027, reflects NSF's mission to support transformative research and advance science and engineering innovation.