Learn more about external funding opportunities such as grants, awards and competitions open to Cornell University innovators, researchers and early-stage ventures.
Jump to: For researchers For startups
For Researchers
NSF NQVL – Quantum Testbeds
Topic: Quantum engineering, AI, robotics, bioengineering
Audience: Individual investigators
Due date: July 24, 2026
Cornell Research & Innovation
Looking for Cornell-internal funding? Several Cornell entities offer opportunities for faculty, postdocs, and students.
For Startups
D-Prize
Funding: $20K
Topic: Social entrepreneurship
Audience: NGOs and early-stage ventures
Ongoing
2030 Fund
Funding: $100K – $1.5M
Topic: Climate tech
Audience: Seed and early-stage startups (based in Massachusetts)
Ongoing
NYS Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI)
Topic: Legal support + accounting guidance + financial advising
Audience: Very small businesses (VSB) and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals (SEDI)
Ongoing
Elbow Grease
Funding: $300K investment with opportunity
Topic: Elbow Grease, an accelerator by New York-based venture fund Gutter Capital
Audience: Early-stage founders
Requirement: 10 weeks (Sep-Nov 2026)
Due date: July 31, 2026
