Collaborative Research Grant RFP
An important component of 4-VA’s mission is improving research competitiveness within the commonwealth by providing funding for faculty to engage in pilot research that could be used as a springboard for subsequent, major external grants. 4-VA collaborative research grants are intended to establish partnerships between faculty, help maximize university resources and provide access to highly specialized laboratory equipment across the 4-VA member institutions.
Grants are typically awarded in the amounts of $5,000-$30,000 and are expected to spend awarded funds by end of the fiscal year (~June 2027). Funding priority will be given to faculty who have not received 4-VA funding previously.
Virginia Tech is most interested in collaborative research proposals that align with the major research initiatives that address areas of artificial intelligence, health, security, and quantum technologies. Other areas of interest are projects that build pathways to graduate school in Virginia, proposals focused on expanding experiential learning opportunities, and the investigation of emerging technologies.
Proposals are required to involve at least one cross-institution collaboration with a 4-VA partner institution. 4-VA partner institution faculty involved in proposals funded by Virginia Tech will be eligible for complementary funding of up to $5,000 per partner institution involved. This complementary funding must be requested by the partner faculty from their home institution.
Submissions can be made at 4VA Collaborative Research Awards Call for Proposals using the identified template.
Submit questions, concerns, or requests for more information about grant opportunities to the 4-VA Campus Coordinator, Catherine Amelink, at amelink@vt.edu.
FY 2027 Timeline
Call open: April 1, 2026
Proposals due: April 27, 2026
Notification: Mid-May 2026