NSF Launches 2026 Idea Machine—Public Invited to Submit Research Ideas
NSF Launches 2026 Idea Machine—Public Invited to Submit Research Ideas
 
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August 2018


The National Science Foundation continues its active search for the next frontier in scientific innovation and engineering with the launch of the NSF 2026 Idea Machine on August 31. Building on NSF’s 10 Big Ideas, the Idea Machine is a public competition to propose research questions, including in STEM education and research, that can be advanced through NSF investment in the next decade.

The deadline for submitting a research idea is October 26. NSF staff will then identify a number of entries and ask their submitters to create videos available for public review before they are evaluated by an expert panel. NSF leadership will select the winners. Those who submitted the winning ideas will receive a cash prize and public recognition.

Additional details and information on how to submit a research idea are available on the NSF 2026 Idea Machine page.