AI Discovery Seed Funding

AI Discovery Seed Funding is sponsored by Office of the Vice President for Commonwealth Campuses, Penn State. Supports integration of AI into research or outreach projects, including funding for AI tools and pilot data collection.

AI discovery, community impact seed funding open to Commonwealth Campus faculty | Penn State University Office of the Vice President for Commonwealth Campuses AI discovery, community impact seed funding open to Commonwealth Campus faculty Credit: Sharon Siegfried / Penn State .

Creative Commons “AI’s rapid evolution, paired with our deep responsibility to serve communities across Pennsylvania, underscores the importance of investing in both emerging technologies and public-impact research,” said Renata Engel, vice president for Commonwealth Campuses and executive chancellor.

“These new programs will empower our faculty to build new skills, explore innovative methods, and strengthen partnerships that benefit our campuses and the communities we serve. ” Applications to both programs are due Dec. 12, and funding will support activities taking place Jan.

1 through June 30, 2026. In alignment with Executive Vice President and Provost Fotis Sotiropoulos ‘s leadership on further advancing AI and positioning the institution as a leader in this field, the OVPCC-sponsored initiative supports Commonwealth Campus faculty in expanding their skills, exploring new methods and integrating AI into research and outreach activities.

The initiative is open to faculty across all disciplines, and prior experience with AI is not required. Projects may be exploratory, pilot-level or advanced. Faculty may submit proposals through one of two tracks: Track 1: AI Faculty Fellowship Provides up to $3,000 to support faculty in developing skills and expertise in AI.

Fellowship funds may be used for AI-related professional development, including courses, workshops, conferences and meetings. Track 2: AI Discovery Seed Funding Provides up to $5,000 to support the integration of AI into research or outreach projects. Funding may be used for AI tools, pilot data collection, core facilities and services, or student assistant wages.

Complete submission requirements and criteria for the AI Discovery Initiative are available online . Community Impact and Engagement Seed Funding Program In alignment with President Neeli Bendapudi’s leadership of a national coalition working to reimagine the future of public-impact research, the OVPCC has established the CIE Seed Funding Program.

The program emphasizes amplifying societal impact, strengthening public engagement, and elevating community leadership in research priorities. It advances Penn State’s land-grant mission by helping transform innovative ideas into tangible solutions that serve the public. Proposed projects should align with and contribute to the applicant’s broader research or outreach plans.

Grants of up to $5,000 are available. Faculty are encouraged to partner with community stakeholders — such as nonprofits, schools, industry partners, civic groups or municipal leaders — to identify pressing needs and co-develop impactful solutions. Complete submission requirements and criteria for the CIE Seed Grant Program are available online .

Last Updated December 1, 2025 Office of the Vice President for Commonwealth Campuses