Level 2 Request for Proposals 2026

The Grand Challenges program is pleased to announce the release of the Level 2 program request for proposals. The RFP will be available here from February 2. Proposals are due on May 1, 2026 and will be submitted via InfoReady.

Participation as a Level 1 team is not a prerequisite for application to the Level 2 program.

A cohort of approximately 2 to 5 teams with diverse disciplinary expertise will be competitively selected for the two-year Level 2 program. Each team will receive up to $200,000 to promote program development and will receive facilitation, mentoring, and other program support and training provided by the Office of the Vice President for Research and other UNM units. Teams may also be eligible for additional strategic investments during the Level 2 program, depending on team progress and the availability of funds.

During Level 2, teams are expected to (1) use the principles of Team Science to develop effective engagement and communication strategies including engaging community partners and a diverse set of UNM researchers and students; (2) implement the initial stages of their team research roadmaps potentially including, but not limited to, conducting pilot research programs, conceptualizing and developing proposals for external funding, and conducting research programs, preferably with the inclusion of student researchers; (3) participate in Grand Challenge program research, evaluation, and reporting; and (4) communicate the results of their research and their participation in the Grand Challenges program through Grand Challenges, OVPR, and other team-based or University-level communications channels.

Request for proposals and application instructions 

Deadlines:

Friday, February 27 5pm: Submit letter of intent to apply
Friday, May 1 5pm: Submit full application in InfoReady

Additional information

Slides from informational sessions
Questions and answers from informational sessions