Call for Next Generation Grant and Clusters of Excellence Grant proposals

The Office of Grants and Funded Research/Post-Award Grants is now accepting proposals for the 2026-2027 Next Generation of Student Success, Innovation, and Community Engagement and Clusters of Excellence grants. The Request for Proposals for both grants are available online.

Next Generation Grant

The Next Generation grant program supports faculty and staff in developing and implementing innovative projects that foster connections with students, business and industry partners, and the communities we serve. These initiatives support faculty in incorporating new activities and teaching methods, thereby positively influencing Central and the broader community. This year, extra scoring points will be granted for proposals that focus on either Artificial Intelligence or interdisciplinary projects, particularly those exploring AI in pedagogy and strategies for keeping higher education relevant, impactful, and innovative.

Clusters of Excellence Grant

The primary objective of the Clusters of Excellence grant competition is to solve today’s toughest challenges by using our faculty’s expertise and providing our students with hands-on experience. Faculty are encouraged to conduct innovative, interdisciplinary research and education to make positive impacts in addressing a societal challenge and to promote Central’s excellence. These Clusters of Excellence will provide the expertise necessary to shape and advance the understanding of complex problems, emerging issues, and future societal challenges. By bringing together diverse and multi-disciplinary faculty teams, these cohorts of scholars and students will focus on new intellectual and relevant themes that cut across disciplines, departments, and schools.

Upcoming event: Pre-proposal meeting

Learn more about the Next Generation of Student Success, Innovation, and Community Engagement and Clusters of Excellence grants on Wednesday, Sept. 10, from 4 to 5 p.m., Davidson Hall, Room 107.