National Science Foundation

The EPIIC program is designed to broaden participation in innovation ecosystems that advance key technologies (e.g., advanced manufacturing, advanced wireless, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, quantum information science, semiconductors, novel materials, and microelectronics) by supporting capacity-building efforts at institutions of higher education (IHEs) interested in growing external partnerships. Creation of this program is motivated by the commitment of the National Science Foundation (NSF) to accelerate scientific and technological innovation nationwide and empower all Americans to participate in the U.S. research and innovation enterprise.

The NSF Regional Innovation Engines program seeks to grow inclusive innovation ecosystems around the country, which can only happen if all interested IHEs within a region are able to participate and contribute their unique set of skills and expertise. The NSF EPIIC program aims to provide those IHEs with limited or no research capacity with the support necessary to become equitable partners with teams competing under the current and subsequent NSF Engines program funding opportunities. 

Members of the EMERGE (Enabling Meaningful External Research Growth in Emergent Technologies) cohort share a commitment to social and economic mobility, empowerment, and community development, which serves as a guiding principle for this project’s activities. Cohort strengths include strong community and industry partnerships, diverse student populations, and regional engagement. 

As recognized partners in research and development (R&D), translation of research into practice, and talent development in emerging technology fields, cohort members share a common vision as the members of the Emerging Partnerships to Increase Innovation Capacity (EPIIC) Project.