ALERT: Read about the response to COVID-19 taking place in EPSCoR/IDeA jurisdictions.

Program History

The EPSCoR/IDeA Program

In 1979, the National Science Foundation created the Established (formerly Experimental) Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) in response to concern over the uneven distribution of federal research and development grants. Following World War II, federally funded research grew dramatically but only a small number of states benefited from the infusion of resources. This pattern of distribution disregarded the rise of regional education and research institutions. Ambitious youth across the country aspired to STEM careers but the nation failed to cultivate and benefit from diverse talent originating in every state. EPSCoR provided a solution.

EPSCoR now spans five federal agencies. The largest initiative is NIH's Institutional Development Award (IDeA) program, which was established in 1993. Participating states and territories are developing university-based research infrastructure which is the foundation of their science and technology enterprise. The research infrastructure also supports a strong economic base. EPSCoR/IDeA programs are accelerating science and technology for U.S. global competitiveness, prosperity, and security.

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