Grant Programs Offered
In 2018, the MSU Foundation awarded $9.5 million to the University, its faculty, and researchers. The purpose of these grants is to strengthen research, develop new technologies, and contribute to Michigan State University’s scholarly infrastructure of teaching and deployment of knowledge.
The grant program is in close collaboration with MSU’s Provost and the Office of the Senior Vice President for Research and Innovation. Together, they work with the Foundation's Board of Directors to set grant-making objectives, provide counsel on special grants, and administer a substantial portion of the grants program.
MSU faculty and researchers wishing to apply for Foundation grants will find all pertinent information here Office of the Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies.
Grants are allocated through these programs:
Strategic Partnership Grant
The Office for Research and Innovation (R&I) requests proposals for the Strategic Partnership Grants (SPG) program. This competitive grants program provides seed funding for major projects in key areas of research, scholarship, and creative activities.
Capacity Building Grants
This program is directed and administered by the MSU Provost and Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies. It encompasses a broad spectrum of University interests in research, teaching, and outreach.
Humanities and Arts Research Program
The Humanities and Arts Research Program (HARP) provides funding for creative and performance projects and funds for use in the arts and humanities area.
Discretionary Funding Initiative Program
The Discretionary Funding Initiative (DFI) program provides bridge funds for tenure-stream faculty for additional studies needed for resubmission of a grant application to the same funding agency.
MSU Foundation Professorships
Established in 2014, the MSU Foundation awards exceptionally accomplished current and incoming faculty for advancing specific areas of scholarly need, disciplinary development, or research or creative emphasis at MSU.
Learn More About MSU Foundation Professorships