The University of Colorado Boulder has announced the allocation of approximately $872,000 to fund 16 new research projects through its 2026 Research and Innovation Seed Grant program. This initiative comes in response to a record number of proposals received from the university’s researchers, which reached 122 submissions, an increase from 104 in 2025. The uptick in proposals is particularly notable given the university’s recent loss of tens of millions of dollars in federal funding due to canceled grants and stop work orders.
Supporting High-Risk, High-Reward Research
The Research and Innovation Seed Grant program aims to empower faculty at CU Boulder to pursue innovative ideas that may carry high risks but also the potential for significant rewards. “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,” said Massimo Ruzzene, the senior vice chancellor for research and innovation.
The program, now in its 18th year, has awarded approximately $19.6 million in funding since its inception, supporting over 417 projects across various disciplines. In 2025, the program allocated around $900,000 to fund 15 new projects, showcasing a consistent commitment to fostering creative and impactful research.
Wide Range of Research Areas
The projects funded through the 2026 round cover a diverse array of topics, including weather, water quality monitoring, artificial intelligence, folk religion, and violence reduction. This broad spectrum reflects the university’s dedication to addressing pressing societal challenges through research in fields such as biosciences, health, sustainability, humanities, and quantum studies.
Each grant allows researchers to receive up to $60,000 over a period of 18 months, providing essential financial support tailored to high-potential initiatives. This year, proposals underwent rigorous evaluation by 14 review panels comprised of 45 faculty members, ensuring that only the most promising ideas receive backing.
The continued funding from the Research and Innovation Seed Grant program highlights CU Boulder’s commitment to supporting innovative research endeavors, particularly during a time when federal funding may be less reliable. As the university navigates these challenges, it remains focused on fostering creativity and significant societal impact through its robust research initiatives.
