Exploring the NSF 2026 Idea Machine

Exploring the NSF 2026 Idea Machine

Dear friends of the social, behavioral, and economic sciences,

NSF invites submission of proposals for Conferences and EArly-concept Grants for Exploratory Research (EAGERs), following the themes that emerged in the top 33 entries submitted to the NSF 2026 Idea Machine, a prize competition seeking compelling ideas for fundamental research in science and engineering to be pursued in the coming years. The contest invited entrants to describe an emerging science, engineering, or learning research challenge that they thought should be addressed. It was open to the general public, inviting input from both experienced stakeholders and new and unconventional partners.

See NSF 2026 Idea Machine for information about the prize competition.

The top 33 Idea Machine entries are available at https://nsf2026imgallery.skild.com/.

Complete instructions for submitting proposals are described in the Dear Colleague Letter: Exploring the NSF 2026 Idea Machine.

Thank you.

-SBE Communications