Measurement Science and Engineering (MSE) Research Grant Programs

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, administers the Measurement Science and Engineering (MSE) Research Grant Programs to advance innovation and industrial competitiveness through measurement science, standards, and technology. This funding opportunity supports Fiscal Year activities across multiple NIST laboratories, centers, and program offices, each aligned with specialized technical domains such as artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, communications, materials science, and quantum technologies. The program reflects NIST’s broader mission to enhance U.S. economic security and technological leadership through collaborative research and standards development. The purpose of this opportunity is to fund activities that develop, expand, strengthen, or sustain NIST partnership programs and to support the conduct of research or collaborative research aligned with NIST priorities. Projects may include early-stage research and development, standards development, workforce training, technology transfer, and measurement science innovation. Funding may also support conferences, workshops, outreach programs, and technical meetings, although NIST cannot serve as an official sponsor for such events. The program encompasses a wide range of scientific and engineering disciplines including metrology, nanotechnology, semiconductor manufacturing, cybersecurity, fire research, and environmental measurement. Funding is provided through grants or cooperative agreements depending on the level of federal involvement. Project performance periods may extend up to five years, although some programs have shorter limits. Individual award amounts vary significantly by program, ranging from small conference support awards of a few thousand dollars to large-scale research awards in the millions annually. Funding is typically issued on a yearly basis with continuation contingent upon performance, relevance, and availability of federal funds. Importantly, there is no cost sharing or matching requirement for this opportunity, making it accessible to a broad range of applicants. Eligibility is open to all non-federal entities, including institutions of higher education, nonprofit organizations, for-profit organizations, state and local governments, Indian tribes, hospitals, and foreign entities. However, individuals and sole proprietors are not eligible. NIST encourages participation from minority-serving institutions and community colleges, emphasizing inclusivity and broad collaboration. Certain subprograms may include additional restrictions or requirements, such as research security reviews or domestic control provisions for intellectual property. Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov and include a comprehensive package of required documents such as the SF-424 form, detailed budget, project narrative, resumes for key personnel, and a data management plan. The project narrative is limited to 25 pages and must clearly outline objectives, methodology, personnel qualifications, and anticipated outcomes. Evaluation criteria are detailed in the full announcement and generally assess technical merit, relevance to NIST priorities, and the applicant’s capability to execute the proposed work. The application deadline for this funding opportunity is September 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Applications submitted after this deadline will not be considered. While this opportunity is part of an ongoing federal program that may be reissued in future years, applicants should treat each cycle independently. Programmatic and technical questions are directed to contacts listed within each specific program area, with detailed contact information provided in the full announcement. Overall, the MSE Research Grant Programs represent a significant federal investment in advancing measurement science and engineering capabilities across the United States and internationally. By supporting a diverse portfolio of research and collaboration, NIST aims to strengthen the scientific foundation necessary for innovation, standards development, and global competitiveness.