Collaborative research: epiic: nsjv rite

The National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded $400,000 under the Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships program (CFDA 47.084) to the University of the Pacific, with a performance period from September 1, 2025, through August 31, 2028. The award supports the North San Joaquin Valley Regional Innovation Translation Ecosystem (NSJV-RITE) project, which develops and delivers applied research services and technical support packages spanning advanced manufacturing, circular bioeconomy, and clean energy sectors. The initiative will assess institutional resources at two predominantly undergraduate institutions, establish shared protocols and technical service offerings refined through industry partnerships, and create structured long-term collaborations with external stakeholders to strengthen the region's capacity for applied research and innovation translation.

Through continuous evaluation and iterative improvement, NSJV-RITE will deliver a scalable regional innovation model designed to generate economic development outcomes including job creation, small business growth, and enhanced workforce education and training. The project leverages existing regional strengths in agriculture, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy while aligning with broader economic development initiatives, including the North Valley Thrive Economic Development Initiative and circular bioeconomy advancement efforts. No subawards are planned for this award.

Abstract

The north SAN joaquin valley regional innovation translation ecosystem (nsjv-rite) project focuses on using the region?s strengths in areas including agriculture, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy to support bigger goals across the country. Its purpose is to create new jobs, help small businesses grow, and give more people access to education and job training. By bringing together local businesses, universities, and community resources, nsjv-rite aspires to turn good ideas into real-world solutions that make life better for local residents and show how communities can lead the way in building a stronger, more innovative economy. The project aligns with major regional efforts, including the north valley thrive economic development initiative and a collaborative which is advancing circular bioeconomy technologies. Nsjv-rite will evaluate institutional resources across two predominantly undergraduate institutions; develop shared protocols and technical service packages; and work with industry partners to refine offerings in advanced manufacturing, circular bioeconomy, and other key sectors. The initiative will also establish structured, long-term collaborations with external partners and strengthen the region?s capacity for applied research. Through continuous evaluation, improvement, and shared learning, nsjv-rite will deliver a scalable model for regional innovation that drives economic development and enhances national competitiveness. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.- subawards are not planned for this award.