The National Security Research Institute (NSRI) has announced the launch of its 2026 NSRI Seed Grant Program. This program is designed to deliver impactful national security science and technology solutions that ultimately lead to successful extramural funding opportunities. For its first year, NSRI anticipates funding at least six awards for up to $100,000 per award. The program aims to stimulate research in several priority areas–including hypersonics, microelectronics, and PFAS-free alternatives– while advancing national security research and education, enhancing the impact of the State of Minnesota and the University, and preparing students for the national security workforce.
NSRI serves as a regional hub dedicated to driving interdisciplinary collaboration with both internal and external partners on national security–related opportunities. Its operating structure is modeled after the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), emphasizing accelerated outcomes, interdisciplinary collaboration, and transformative scientific and technological impacts.
The program also aims to enable early-stage concepts that can evolve into major externally funded efforts and strengthen partnerships across the University, industry, and government. Proposals will be reviewed by members of the NSRI Industry Advisory Board (IAB). Finalists will be invited to deliver a 30-minute presentation at the February 2026 IAB meeting. Principal investigators (PIs) must be University of Minnesota faculty (tenured, tenure-track, or research faculty) and collaborative proposals involving multiple departments, campuses, or external partners are strongly encouraged. All applicants must identify potential partners, sponsors, or funding agencies for follow-on extramural proposals. Additionally, all applications must specify a MS or PhD student (U.S. citizen or permanent resident) who will participate and describe how this experience supports their preparation for the national security workforce.
Availability/Deadlines
- 12/1/25: Application opens
- 1/21/26: Proposal submission deadline
- 2/5/26: Finalists invited to give 30 minute presentation at the IAB meeting
- Week of February 23rd: Finalists Present to IAB
- Week of March 2nd: Anticipated award notification
- 3/9/26: Award period begins
Learn more and apply: National Security Research Institute Seed Grant Program