The National Science Foundation (NSF) is dramatically reducing its vital support for scientific research. Principal Investigators who were conducting or facilitating economic research under a grant terminated by NSF can now apply for rescue funds to mitigate disruptions of work that promises to provide societal benefits.

Application Deadline:
Rolling; funds are limited - grantseekers should apply as soon as possible

Award Size:
Grants will range from $25K to $250K, with most awards under $50K

To apply for rescue funds, PIs of terminated grants are asked to submit a narrative letter describing the social value of the work that is being disrupted, including why the project is important for the United States and, if applicable, the world. The SSRC will convene a Public Review Panel to evaluate submissions. Panel members are expected to include consumers of economic information, including former state and local officials, high school teachers, journalists, and business leaders. The panel will evaluate the proposals, and make funding recommendations based on the perceived value of the research and the impact of the rescue funds.

To be eligible for rescue funding, a research project must:

·        Have received an NSF funding award prior to 6/1/2025  

·        Have had that award officially terminated, cancelled, or suspended by the NSF  

·        Be economics-related, as evidenced by the inclusion of the CV of at least one practicing PhD economist in the original NSF funding application  

The Economic Research Rescue Fund is generously supported by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.