FY25 Minerva Research Initiative University Research Program
ID: 356694Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

Washington Headquarters Services (DOD-WHS)

Award Range

$1M - $30M

Eligible Applicants

Others

Funding Category

Science and Technology and other Research and Development

Funding Instrument

Grant

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes
Timeline
    Description

    The Washington Headquarters Services is offering the FY25 Minerva Research Initiative University Research Program, a federal grant aimed at supporting innovative basic research in social sciences related to national security. The initiative seeks to enhance the Department of Defense's understanding of social, cultural, behavioral, and political dynamics that influence global regions of strategic importance, encouraging collaborations among universities and research institutions. Grants will range from $1 million to $30 million, with an expected 15 awards, and proposals must be submitted by February 28, 2025, following an initial white paper submission due by November 29, 2024. For further inquiries, interested applicants can contact Jonathan Bertsch at jonathan.e.bertsch.civ@mail.mil.

    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The Department of Defense's Minerva Research Initiative seeks to support basic research that enhances understanding of social science in the context of national security. The initiative invites submissions through a two-stage process: first, white papers due by November 29, 2024, and then full proposals by February 28, 2025. The funding opportunity covers six key research topics, including societal cohesion and conflict, influence measurements, and the societal impacts of technological change. Grants of up to $1 million per year for a maximum of 15 successful proposals are anticipated, totaling up to $30 million. The initiative encourages collaborations among universities and relevant institutions while emphasizing original, transformative research to build the Department's intellectual capacity. Eligible applicants include universities, non-profit institutions, and certain other research entities. Each proposal must align with the research priorities established by the Defense Department, aiming to foster innovative solutions to defense-related behavioral and social questions. Overall, the Minerva Research Initiative aspires to bridge the gap between the Department of Defense and the social science community, ultimately contributing to informed policy and strategy.
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