NSF INVITES UNC CHARLOTTE TO SUBMIT A FULL PROPOSAL TO ITS SECOND REGIONAL INNOVATION ENGINES COMPETITION

November 6, 2024
Categories: Division of Research, Research

October 31, 2024

We are excited to announce that UNC Charlotte is one of 71 teams chosen out of nearly 300 to submit a full proposal to the U.S. National Science Foundation Regional Innovation Engines (NSF Engines) program. NSF Engines aims to advance innovation ecosystems across the country, through strategic, cross-sector collaboration in ten key technology areas.

With UNC Charlotte as the lead organization, our “CLEANcarolinas Regional Innovation Engine,” addresses advanced energy and industrial efficiency technologies, including power systems and conversion, grid technologies, and electro-mechanical technologies. Its region of service spans 36 counties in North and South Carolina, and engages CLEANcarolinas partner institutions dedicated to creating an innovation-focused clean energy ecosystem.

The project’s Principal Investigator is Division of Research Vice Chancellor Dr. John Daniels. He shares his passion for the university being a leader in designing the energy grid of the future, as well as clean energy growth through innovation and economic development. 

“The excitement around this is really two-fold. Being selected to submit a full proposal is testament to our commitment to world-class research as an emerging R1 University,” shares Dr. Daniels. He continues, “It’s also a reflection of our collective vision and the unique alignment with our region of service to establish the Carolinas as a hub for securing the nation’s power grid while amplifying our substantial energy workforce, and harnessing our offshore wind potential.”

According to the NSF Engines website, organizations were first required to submit a letter of intent, then a preliminary proposal outlining plans and partnerships to “advance use-inspired and translational research in key technology areas and address pressing challenges while creating new pathways for the workforce in their regions.”

This isn’t the first time UNC Charlotte has been a part of the NSF Engines program. Our University was awarded the NSF Engines Type1 award in 2023.

As for the second competition, the NSF Regional Innovation Engine full proposal is due February 11, 2025.