NSF EAGER: Early-Concept Grants for Exploratory Research

When EAGER Is Appropriate

EAGER is specifically for work that does not fit within the standard proposal process due to its preliminary or speculative nature.

• Radically different approaches — testing a fundamentally new method or framework that lacks preliminary data
• Interdisciplinary convergence — early explorations at the intersection of fields where traditional reviewers may not see the potential
• Proof of concept — demonstrating that an unconventional idea is feasible before investing in a full proposal
• New collaborations — pilot work between groups that have not previously worked together, where the combination is novel
• Not for underfunded standard research — EAGER is not a workaround for proposals that were declined through normal review

How to Pursue an EAGER Award

EAGER requires program officer buy-in before submission. This is not optional.

• Identify the right program officer — find the person who manages proposals most relevant to your research area
• Make your case — explain why the work is (1) high-risk, (2) potentially transformative, and (3) not appropriate for standard review
• Get encouragement — the program officer must agree that EAGER is the right mechanism before you submit
• Project description — 8 pages (shorter than the standard 15-page limit)
• Review process — the program officer may consult informally with colleagues but formal external review panels are not used

EAGER vs. Standard Proposals vs. RAPID

EAGER fills a distinct niche between standard proposals and RAPID awards. Standard proposals are for well-developed ideas with preliminary data evaluated via peer review. RAPID is for time-sensitive research on ephemeral phenomena. EAGER is for high-risk, speculative work that is too early-stage for peer review but not driven by a time-sensitive event. The budget ceiling for EAGER ($400,000) is higher than RAPID ($300,000) but much lower than a typical standard award. If your idea is well-developed enough to survive peer review, submit a standard proposal instead.