Instrumentation Grants Program

About this program

Offered through the West Virginia Research Challenge Fund with approval by the West Virginia Science & Research Council, the Instrumentation Grants Program supports purchase of modern scientific instruments for advanced undergraduate laboratories to increase student exposure to instrumentation and encourage STEM careers. Instruments must be used primarily for instructional purposes but may also enhance faculty research that actively includes undergraduates, and the program encourages follow-on proposals to NSF and other federal agencies. Eligible applicants are primarily undergraduate institutions and universities (PUIs) in West Virginia; faculty from West Virginia University and Marshall University are ineligible, though branch campuses of those universities may apply. Awards of up to $20,000 (estimated 4–5 awards) are anticipated, the next proposal deadline is October 1, 2026, and funding is contingent on state appropriation and council approval.