Early-Career Scientists: Apply for a Civic Engagement Microgrant of Up to $4,000

Research!America’s Civic Engagement Microgrants are now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 cycle, and the deadline is November 20, 2026.

The program funds STEM groups led by master’s, PhD, postdoc, or professional students. Grantees design and run projects that start conversations with public officials, local community leaders, and the public about issues of common concern. Along the way, they build skills in communication and program planning, and learn how public policy and government work.

Why civic engagement matters for scientists

The public expects scientists to take part. In a Research!America poll, 91% of Americans surveyed said it is important for scientists to inform elected officials about their research and its impact on society. Another 89% said sharing research with the public is part of a scientist’s job.

There is also a practical reason. Almost 50% of basic research support comes from the federal government, so being able to explain the value of science to the public and to policymakers is a vital skill for the next generation of researchers.

Three funding categories

• Startup Funding (up to $4,000): For new groups less than a year old, to build student interest, start programming, and develop sustainable local support.
• Design Your Own Community Event (up to $2,500): For in-person, virtual, or hybrid events that bring together scientists, community members, youth programs, and local officials, such as panels, roundtables, or hands-on science fairs.
• Digital Media (up to $2,000): For podcasts, videos, infographics, and data visualizations that support science policy and civic engagement projects. Data-driven projects should use publicly available data sets.

Applicants also select one or more themes: Collaborations, Civic Science at Scale, Recognizing Lived Experience, and Neuroscience.

Support beyond the funding

Grantees get access to virtual networking “coffee chats” with fellow recipients and workshops with experts on program management, event planning, media relations, and public engagement.

Who can apply

Groups of master’s and PhD students, professional students (medical, dental, pharmacy, nursing, and others), and postdocs living in the U.S. or a U.S. territory are eligible. International students at U.S.-based universities may also apply. Each application must name two co-leaders and include a U.S.-based fiscal sponsor, usually a university office or department. Grants cannot be used for stipends, salaries, research expenses, or lobbying.

Key dates

• November 6, 2026, 2 p.m. ET: Information session
• November 10, 2026, 11 a.m. ET: Information session
• November 20, 2026: Applications close
• Late December 2026: Decisions announced
• June 11, 2027: Funds must be spent
• July 23, 2027: Final deliverables due

Ready to apply?

Learn more, read about past projects, and start your application at https://www.researchamerica.org/civic-science/microgrants/.