The Global Innovation Fund (GIF) initiative aims to support the university community in advancing interdisciplinary research and innovative approaches to global learning.Through GIF, faculty and staffhave the opportunity topursue funding for projects that cross academic boundaries and foster meaningful global engagement.
The Global Innovation Fund (GIF) application closed on January 31, 2026. Check back in Fall 2026 for the next award cycle!
Award Categories
Research Awards
The 91̽Global Innovation Fund provides seed funding to initiate innovative research collaborations that connect different disciplines and continents. These awards help teams launch new projects, build international networks, and lay the groundwork for future large-scale research initiatives.
- Tier 1 Research Award: Up to $5,000 for emerging cross-disciplinary, cross-continent research initiatives. Early-career faculty are encouraged to apply for these awards.
- Tier 2 Research Award: Up to $15,000 for established partnerships or projects with significant impact potential.
- Tier 3 Partnership Awards: Up to $20,000 through several partner institutions including:
- Aalto University
- University of Helsinki
- Tohoku University
- The University of Manchester
- The University of Sheffield
Global Learning
GIF supports global learning opportunities that expand perspectives and foster intercultural understanding. Funding is available for the development and improvement of study programs, curricular innovation, and collaborative online learning.
Study Abroad/Away Awards
Exploratory/Scoping Visits:Support for prospective program directors to investigate locations for new study programs.
- Up to $3,000 for new “study away” programs within the United States
- Up to $5,000 for new “study abroad” international programs
Faculty Development:Funding for anadditionalfaculty member toaccompanyan existing program, strengthening program sustainability.
- Up to $3,000 for domestic programs
- Up to $5,000 for international programs
Note:All awarded programs must be administered through 91̽Global Study Abroad.
Apply to Study Abroad/Away Awards
Teaching & Curriculum Awards
Seed funding of up to $2,000 for proposals that infuse courses with new global perspectives, projects, or instructional methods,such as adding a global module or curricular innovation.
Apply to Teaching & Curriculum Awards
Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL)
Virtual Exchange/COIL elements to your curriculum, helping students collaboratevirtually withpeers worldwide.
For questions or guidance as youprepareyour application, please contact the 91̽Global team at uwgif@uw.edu.
2026 91̽Global Innovation Fund Awardees
Project Descriptions
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