Impact Institutes, a seed funding initiative launched in May, has collected more than 140 letters of intent in its first cycle, reflecting broad engagement toward advancing interdisciplinary research. 

Researchers from more than 30 colleges, schools and units, including the UM-Flint and UM-Dearborn campuses, as well as several non-academic units such as Athletics, Student Life and Housing, submitted the 142 letters of intent. 

From this competitive pool, 42 applicants have been selected to submit full proposals by Oct. 22. Ten institutes will receive first-round funding.

“The enthusiasm seen in this first cycle demonstrates the tremendous creativity and culture of collaboration across U-M faculty,” said Lisa Prosser, associate vice president for research-health sciences and research faculty affairs, who is leading the initiative. 

“Beyond the impressive number of submissions, the proposals reflect an exceptional level of innovation and an eagerness to solve complex challenges with highly interdisciplinary approaches.”

The Impact Institutes initiative supports Look to Michigan, U-M’s strategic vision for driving innovation and societal impact in five key areas: 

• Life-Changing Education.
• Human Health and Well-being.
• Advanced Technology.
• Energy, Climate Action, Sustainability and Environment Equity.
• Democracy, Civic and Global Engagement.

Nearly all submissions aligned with Look to Michigan’s five impact areas, with more than half identifying human health and well-being and advanced technology as their primary focus.

Each proposal was reviewed by two scientific and two public impact reviewers. The 10 institutes selected will receive up to $200,000 in funding over two years, with awards announced in January 2026. An additional 10 projects will be selected for funding in the second cycle, with letters of intent due July 1, 2026. 

Seed Stage institutes that demonstrate potential for national or global leadership will compete for Venture Stage funding and receive $500,000 annually for three years. 

“These submissions demonstrate how the Impact Institutes can position U-M at the forefront to address urgent, real-world challenges,” said Arthur Lupia, vice president for research and innovation. 

“By drawing on the breadth of faculty expertise across disciplines, our researchers have demonstrated their commitment to drive progress on the issues that matter most to communities around the world.”