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External grant opportunities

Here is a list of federal agencies that typically offer funding.

See Grants.gov for additional federal sponsors. Or, review a list of public and private sponsors sorted by discipline.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA): Supports research in science and technology as an important part of NASA's overall mission. NASA solicits this research through the release of various research announcements in a wide range of science and technology disciplines.

National Endowment for the Arts (NEA): Provides funding for many artistic disciplines, including arts education, literature, music, and theater.

National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH): Provides a variety of funding options, including education, preservation and access, and research.

National Science Foundation (NSF): Exists as an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense." Funding areas include biological sciences, computer and information sciences, education and human resources, geosciences, mathematical and physical sciences, and social, behavioral, and economic sciences.

Smithsonian Institution: Maintains a variety of research programs, including marine life, education and museum studies, earth and planetary studies, folklife and cultural heritage, and invention and innovation.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA): Provides funds to researchers to address national problems and needs related to agriculture, the environment, human health and well-being, and communities.

U.S. Department of Commerce: Implements a broad mandate to advance economic growth and jobs and opportunities for the American people. It has cross-cutting responsibilities in the areas of trade, technology, entrepreneurship, economic development, environmental stewardship, and statistical research and analysis.

U.S. Department of Education (ED): Promotes student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access. Funding programs are issued from several sub-offices. 

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS): Serves as the United States government's principal agency for protecting the health of all Americans and providing essential human services, especially for those who are least able to help themselves. Includes several sub-agencies, such as:

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Carries out its mission to protect human health and the environment. Grant programs cover a range of activities, including environmental education, pollution prevention, environmental science and engineering research, and water-related issues.

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