Bridging the Future: Call for Proposals
Bridging the Future: Call for Proposals The Neural Information Processing Systems Foundation solicits proposals to support broadening participation activities in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. Activities can be geared toward any age group or educational level, from grade school to senior faculty. We particularly encourage innovative and novel approaches that have not been widely implemented in AI/ML education and outreach. Examples include workshops, programs, and web-based materials designed to enhance the training of young researchers, particularly those that employ innovative methods or reach underserved populations in novel ways. Activities will be prioritized based on: Novelty and innovation in approach or methodology Potential for broadening representation and inclusion in the field Demonstrated or anticipated high impact and reach Alignment with the goals of the Neural Information Processing Systems Foundation While we welcome proposals that build upon successful existing models, preference will be given to programs that pioneer new strategies or adapt approaches from other fields in original ways. Funding: Target maximum of $50,000 (amounts may vary based on goals and impact). Timeline: Proposals will be evaluated on a rolling basis, with a target deadline of Feb 15, 2026 . Indirect Cost Policy It is the policy of Neural Information Processing Systems to provide an indirect cost recovery of 10 percent of project costs on all project grants. Neural Information Processing Systems aims to be explicit, transparent and equitable across fields and organizations. The goals of this policy include: Supporting grantees to accomplish the purposes of the project Structuring awards according to financial need and costs associated with a project Paying the direct costs of grant projects plus a fair share of associated indirect costs Promoting effective and efficient allocation of resources Acting with consistency and fairness across grantees Application: This indirect cost policy applies only to project grants to nonprofit organizations. The 10 percent indirect cost policy does not apply to: General operating support grants Endowment grants Flexible support project grants, such as grants made to large, well-established organizations for the purposes of supporting the general operations of a separately managed center Other grants as described in the Indirect Cost Policy FAQs Grants where an exception is approved on a case-by-case basis by an authorized committee at the Foundation This policy is effective January 1, 2026. Contact: bridging-the-future@neurips.cc Apply for Grant Successful Page Load NeurIPS uses cookies for essential functions only. We do not sell your personal information. Our Privacy Policy » Accept
Executive Summary
The Neural Information Processing Systems Foundation has issued a call for proposals to support broadening participation activities in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. The foundation encourages innovative approaches that enhance the training of young researchers, particularly those that employ novel methods or reach underserved populations. Proposals will be evaluated based on novelty, potential for broadening representation, high impact, and alignment with the foundation's goals. Funding is available up to $50,000, with proposals evaluated on a rolling basis. The foundation also establishes an indirect cost policy, providing a 10 percent recovery for project grants to nonprofit organizations.
Key Points
- ▸ The Neural Information Processing Systems Foundation is soliciting proposals to support broadening participation activities in AI/ML.
- ▸ Innovative approaches that enhance the training of young researchers are encouraged.
- ▸ Proposals will be evaluated based on novelty, potential for broadening representation, high impact, and alignment with the foundation's goals.
- ▸ Funding is available up to $50,000.
- ▸ The foundation establishes an indirect cost policy for project grants to nonprofit organizations.
Merits
Supporting Diversity and Inclusion
The foundation's emphasis on broadening participation activities and innovative approaches will help increase diversity and inclusion in the AI/ML field.
Encouraging Novel Research
The call for proposals encourages researchers to develop novel approaches and methodologies, which can lead to breakthroughs and advancements in the field.
Aligning with Foundation Goals
The evaluation criteria ensure that proposals align with the foundation's goals, ensuring that funding is targeted towards initiatives that will have a meaningful impact.
Demerits
Limited Funding
The maximum funding available is $50,000, which may not be sufficient to support large-scale or ambitious projects.
Indirect Cost Policy Complexity
The indirect cost policy may be confusing or difficult to navigate for some applicants, potentially leading to misunderstandings or unintended consequences.
Expert Commentary
The Neural Information Processing Systems Foundation's call for proposals is a timely and welcome initiative. The emphasis on broadening participation activities and innovative approaches will likely lead to a more diverse and inclusive AI/ML research community. However, the limited funding and potential complexity of the indirect cost policy may pose challenges for applicants. As the field continues to evolve, it is essential to prioritize diversity, inclusion, and innovation in research initiatives.
Recommendations
- ✓ The foundation should consider increasing the maximum funding available to support larger-scale projects.
- ✓ The foundation should provide clear guidance and resources to help applicants navigate the indirect cost policy.
