The University of Colorado Boulder has announced it will allocate approximately $872,000 to support 16 new research projects through its 2026 Research and Innovation Seed Grant program. This funding initiative is particularly notable as the university received a record 122 proposals from its researchers, a significant increase from 104 proposals in 2025.
This surge in interest comes in the context of CU Boulder experiencing substantial losses in federal funding, amounting to tens of millions of dollars due to canceled grants and stop work orders. Massimo Ruzzene, 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.”
Overview of Funding and Impact
In 2025, the Seed Grant program awarded around $900,000 across 15 projects. Since its inception in 2008, the program has distributed nearly $19.6 million in funding for over 417 projects on campus. Each project aims to explore innovative solutions across diverse fields such as biosciences, health, sustainability, humanities, and quantum research.
This year’s selected projects cover a wide range of topics, including weather patterns, water quality monitoring, artificial intelligence, folk religion, and strategies for reducing violence. The program is designed to support research, scholarship, and creative projects that exhibit a high potential for innovation or societal impact. Researchers can receive grants of up to $60,000 over an 18-month period.
Evaluation Process and Future Prospects
The recent proposals were rigorously evaluated by 14 review panels, comprising 45 faculty members. This systematic assessment ensures that the most promising projects receive the necessary funding to advance their research. The Seed Grant program, now in its 18th year, continues to award approximately $1 million annually, making it a vital resource for faculty and researchers at CU Boulder.
As the university navigates challenging funding landscapes, the commitment to fostering innovative research through initiatives like the Seed Grant program demonstrates a proactive approach to sustaining academic inquiry and societal advancement. The outcomes of these projects are anticipated to make significant contributions to their respective fields and the broader community.
