The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) is pleased to announce a request for proposals (RFP) to fund research infrastructure at the University of Minnesota. For 2026, RIO will be accepting proposals with a minimum request of $50,000 ($100,000 with required matching funds).
RIO is committed to facilitating strong core facilities as the backbone for research excellence and to encourage cross-disciplinary collaboration. The funding available for this RFP will be directed toward new or existing facilities, service centers, or other shared resources across the University system. Wherever possible, new equipment requests should place equipment in an existing shared research facility. If an existing shared research facility cannot be used, please provide a detailed explanation of why it is not possible. Matching funds are required.
2026 Program Key Dates
Opens in February. The award period begins July 1 and lasts 12 months.
February 23 - Letter of intent due
February 24 - Application opens
March 23 - PI submits application to approvers (by 11:59 p.m.)
March 26 - Approvers submit application to RIO (by 11:59 p.m.)
June 2025 - Award notification
July 1 - Award period begins
In 2026, RIO will only be offering one cycle of the Research Infrastructure Investment Program for spring. See the Research Infrastructure Investment Program page to learn more and to apply.
See the list of past Research Infrastructure Investment recipients.
Questions? Please contact [email protected]