NYU Steinhardt’s Office of Research is pleased to announce the 2026-27 Steinhardt Faculty Challenge Grants.
The Steinhardt Faculty Challenge Grants provide funding to support the development of promising scholarship that advances the health, development, and well-being of people and communities around the world. Where relevant, the grants also aim to position Steinhardt faculty to secure external funding and/or other awards to further advance these innovative projects. Awards are expected to range from $15,000 to $25,000 for a one-year project period (February 1-January 31), with funding decisions announced in late fall. Applicants whose proposals are not selected for funding will be offered consultation to identify alternative funding opportunities.
Funding Priorities
Proposals that feature the following criteria will receive priority consideration:
- Interdisciplinary work or collaboration between researchers and community partners.
- Early career faculty (e.g., receipt of doctorate within the past seven years).
- Potential for leading to external funding, awards, or social impact.
- Work that aligns with school and university equity goals.
Eligibility
All full-time Steinhardt faculty (tenure-track, clinical) and other scholars with PI status are eligible to apply. Applicants must not have received Steinhardt Faculty Challenge Grant funding within the two previous years.
Evaluation
The review committee will evaluate proposals by considering the following criteria and may seek comments from other colleagues at the University:
- Significance of and potential for advancing the relevant field.
- Clarity of the aim, question, or problem.
- Experience and potential of the team to conduct the proposed project.
- Attention to equity in approach, methods, and/or concept.
- Creativity in approach, methods, and/or concept.
- Feasibility of the project.
- Potential for leading to external funding or social impact.
- Dissemination plans.
Grantee Expectations
Recipients are required to report and present on the outcomes of their funded project, and to participate in Steinhardt research, department, or center-sponsored activities and initiatives relevant to their award.