The University of Colorado Boulder has announced the allocation of approximately $872,000 for 16 new research projects through its 2026 Research and Innovation Seed Grant program. This decision follows a record-breaking year in which 122 proposals were submitted by CU Boulder researchers, an increase from 104 in the previous year. The rise in submissions occurs during a period marked by significant reductions in federal funding, with the university facing losses in the tens of millions of dollars due to canceled grants and stop work orders.
Massimo Ruzzene, the senior vice chancellor for research and innovation, emphasized the importance of the Seed Grant program, stating, “During this time of shifting federal funding priorities, the Research & Innovation Seed Grant program remains a reliable cornerstone that empowers CU Boulder faculty to pursue high-risk, high-reward ideas and launch directions that ultimately benefit society in profound ways.”
In 2025, the program distributed around $900,000 across 15 new projects. Since its inception in 2008, the Seed Grant program has provided about $19.6 million in funding for over 417 projects on campus, including this latest round of funding.
Wide Range of Research Topics
The 2026 research proposals cover a diverse array of disciplines, including biosciences, health, sustainability, humanities, and quantum studies. Some of the specific topics being explored include weather patterns, water quality monitoring, artificial intelligence, folk religion, and strategies for reducing violence. The aim of the Research and Innovation Seed Grant program is to support research, scholarship, and creative projects that have high potential for innovation or social impact.
Researchers are eligible for grants of up to $60,000 over a period of 18 months. The program, now in its 18th year, typically awards around $1 million each year. The evaluation process for this year’s proposals involved 14 review panels comprising 45 faculty members, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of the submitted projects.
As the university continues to navigate challenges related to federal funding, initiatives like the Research and Innovation Seed Grant program play a crucial role in fostering innovation and supporting the academic community at CU Boulder.
