As a top priority within Washington University’s Here and Next strategic plan, research projects are eligible for seed grant funding within the Digital Transformation focus area — be bold, be original, be innovative.
We’re Looking for Innovative Ideas
Here and Next seed funding is awarded to the most impactful and innovative research projects. Four Here and Next grant programs are available to WashU faculty members applying to the Digital Transformation focus area, each with their own aims and objectives, deadlines, and requirements.
Show us how your idea is:
Ambitious
We are not looking for safe ideas. We want to fund research designed to solve problems and make a meaningful difference at WashU, in St. Louis, and beyond.
Digital
The DI2 Accelerator is here to support researchers who are focused on solving large-scale societal problems using a combination of information, computing, communication, and connectivity technologies.
Interdisciplinary
The most impactful solutions require collaboration by top minds representing diverse perspectives. Large projects involving researchers from multiple disciplines are eligible for the Transcend Initiative Here and Next grant program.
How We Can Support Digital Transformation Projects
The DI2 Accelerator and our partners offers the expertise and resources to help position your proposal for success. Whether you’re developing an initial concept or refining a draft, we offer technical expertise and guidance to enhance your chances of securing funding.
Pre-proposal consultation is not required but is strongly encouraged in order to ensure your proposal aligns with funding priorities and increase your chances of success.
Software Development and AI Enablement Services
Leverage the best-in-class services of the Digital Solutions Studio (DSS), the software and data engineering arm of the DI2 Accelerator. Our team of experienced engineers can help create a prototype, develop a custom software solution, or enable advanced generative AI capabilities in WashU’s secure environment – in a matter of months, not years.
We will provide a detailed project cost estimate to include in your grant proposal and develop a timeline to ensure your project is completed on schedule.
Proposal Workshopping
We offer one-on-one workshopping sessions with our staff to elevate your proposal to align with the high-impact nature of Digital Transformation initiatives. Whether you are in the early stages of concept development or seeking to improve your proposal, our team provides constructive feedback and guidance.
Interdisciplinary Researcher Matchmaking
Through our extensive network across both campuses, we can help connect you with faculty from relevant fields to foster interdisciplinary collaboration. Whether you need an expert in engineering, design, or social sciences, we’ll help you build a team that strengthens your proposal.
Get started today
Contact us at di2accelerator@wustl.edu to set up a meeting.