MS-CC Research Catalyst Program

This program is designed to directly support researchers and faculty in advancing their research objectives.by funding projects leveraging cyberinfrastructure (CI).

Through the MS-CC Research Catalyst Program, we aim to build connections between researchers and campus information technology leaders, connect campuses to national CI resources, and set them toward broader CI funding opportunities, including NSF’s Campus Cyberinfrastructure (CC*) program. This program may fund up to $200,000 per selected project.

Currently Accepting Applications Through May 9, 2025

Researchers, faculty, and administrators at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) are encouraged to apply for funding. Learn more and download the application instructions and guidelines.

Projects the program will consider funding include but are not limited to: 

• Network Infrastructure: Upgrades to improve research lab connectivity through hardware and service investments.
• Identity and Access Management: Enhancements through InCommon and eduroam memberships, including associated implementation and hardware costs.
• Computational Resources: Acquisition and deployment of local or cloud-based HPC/HTC clusters and related infrastructure.
• Professional Development: Training opportunities for researchers, IT staff, and CI professionals through CI-focused workshops, conferences, and programs.
• Community Workshops: Support for CI workshops aided by MS-CC and events focused on CC* grant writing and collaboration.
• Workforce Development: Funding scalable workforce programs such as internships, graduate fellowships, and other skill-building initiatives.
• Research Data Development: Support for data collection and transfer technologies, including IoT data acquisition, remote sensing, local storage, and high-speed transfer solutions.

The MS-CC Research Catalyst Program is designed to make broadly applicable funding available with a broad scope to support diverse research goals.

Who Should Apply?

We welcome applications from researchers, faculty, and administrators across all disciplines, including, but not limited to, STEM fields, humanities, natural sciences, and beyond, who:

• Require CI resources to advance their research.
• Are interested in exploring CI in their research.
• Seek guidance and support in utilizing national CI infrastructure and resources.

Why Apply?

This grant program provides:

• A lower-effort application process compared to more formal and extensive CI grant programs.
• Direct CI support from MS-CC and Internet2 experts, such as CI Facilitation services,  CI Engineer services, Federation, and eduroam support.
• Immediate access to a network of CI resources, tools, and expertise.

How to Apply

For complete instructions and guidelines:

1. Prepare a five-page application that includes all of the following:

• Project description, objectives, and intended impact.
• CI needs, and how this program will support them.
• Expected and measurable outcomes and how they contribute to the campus CI landscape. Outcomes must specifically advance science drivers* and/or enhance cyberinfrastructure supporting research on the campus.

2. Email your applications in PDF format to Al Anderson by 4:30 PM MDT on May 9, 2025.

3. Receive notification of selection by May 23, 2025.

*Applicants can contact the MS-CC for guidance on identifying science drivers for their project.

We look forward to receiving your applications and supporting you in advancing your research with the power of cyberinfrastructure.

Questions

Questions about the program and application process can be sent to Al Anderson, MS-CC Director of Cyberinfrastructure Programs.