Applications are now open for the UC Office of Research's newest internal funding programs. Internal funding programs serve as seed funding, helping promising projects take shape, build critical data, and strengthen proposals for external grants.

Learn about these new programs below! For the full Request for Applications documents and information on how to apply, be sure to visit the Office of Research's Internal Funding page.

Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (AHSS) Catalytic Grants

What it is: The AHSS Catalytic Grant program affirms UC’s commitment to comprehensive research excellence by investing in the forms of scholarship and creative activity that define success in arts, humanities, and social sciences disciplines. The program supports UC faculty, working individually or in teams, to advance high-impact scholarly and creative work.

Who it is for: UC faculty members working on a project in the arts, humanities, and/or social science disciplines.

Amount: Up to $25,000 in project support can be requested. The number of awards is dependent on available funding.

Key Dates:
Award Project Period: Must start no later than June 30, 2026, for 12 to 18 months.
Application Deadline: March 6, 2026 5:00 pm ET

Community-Engaged Research Grants Program

What it is: Building on the University of Cincinnati’s Research2030 priorities for community impact, the Office of Research Community-Engaged Research Grants program supports UC faculty doing research in partnership with organizations or residents to collaboratively address locally identified priorities.

Who it is for: Individual UC faculty or teams of faculty may apply.

Amount: Up to $25,000 in project support can be requested. The number of awards is dependent on available funding.

Key Dates:
Award Project Period: Must start no later than June 30, 2026, for 12 to 18 months.
Application Deadline: March 6, 2026 5:00 pm ET