The Grand Challenges Initiative

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln community has identified seven grand challenge thematic areas in which to focus its expertise and resources, as outlined in the N2025 Strategic Plan. Now, faculty are charged with imagining how their areas of research, scholarship, creative activity and outreach intersect with these challenges and what specific opportunities within these areas they could work across disciplines to help solve. The Chancellor’s Office and the Office of Research and Innovation have committed $40 million over four years to invest in strategic, goal-based solutions.

Information about the 2025 Grand Challenges Catalyst Competition is available on the request for proposals webpage.

2024-2025 Schedule of Events

Oct. 24, 11:00 a.m.

Grand Challenges Town Hall

Registration is required.

Feb. 28, 2025, 5 p.m. Central time

Deadline to submit notices of intent

April 25, 2025, 5 p.m. Central time

2025 proposal deadline