National Center for Education Research (NCER) grants: Research Networks Focused on Critical Problems of Education Policy and Practice

Overview

Purpose of Program: In awarding research grants, the Institute of Education Sciences (IES) intends to provide national leadership in expanding knowledge and understanding of (1) education outcomes for all learners from early childhood education through postsecondary and adult education, and (2) employment and wage outcomes when relevant (such as for those engaged in career and technical, postsecondary, or adult education). The IES research grant programs are designed to provide interested individuals and the general public with reliable and valid information about education practices that support learning and improve academic achievement and access to education opportunities for all learners. These interested individuals include parents, educators, learners, researchers, and policymakers. In carrying out its grant programs, IES provides support for programs of research in areas of demonstrated national need. 

The IES National Center for Education Research (NCER) is announcing two competitions: 
1.    From Seedlings to Scale (ALN 84.305I), and 
2.    Research Networks Focused on Critical Problems of Education Policy and Practice (ALN 84.305N)

Research Networks Focused on Critical Problems of Education Policy and Practice (ALN 84.305N). 
For the FY 2025 competition, NCER will only consider applications that address the following topic: 
•    Accelerate, Transform, Scale (ATS) Initiative Hub. The ATS Initiative supports education R&D to create scalable solutions to improve education outcomes for all learners and eliminate persistent achievement and attainment gaps. The ATS Initiative Hub will support the establishment of new ATS Initiative programs and provide high-level support to IES in coordinating existing programs that fall under this new initiative.

Fiscal Information: Although Congress has not yet enacted an appropriation for FY 2025, IES is inviting applications for these competitions now so that applicants can have adequate time to prepare their applications. The actual level of funding, if any, depends on final congressional action. IES may announce additional competitions later in 2024. 

Estimated Range of Award: 
ATS Initiative Hub: $500,0000 to $1,500,000 annually across an entire project period of 5 years. The size of the awards will depend on the scope of the projects proposed. 
For the Research Networks Focused on Critical Problems of Education Policy and Practice (ALN 84.305N), we intend to fund one ATS Initiative Hub team. 

Project Period:  
ATS Initiative Hub: Up to 5 years.