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OIA Research Capacity and Competitiveness

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Office of Integrative Activities (OD/OIA)

The U.S. National Science Foundation Office of Integrative Activities Research Capacity and Competitiveness (RCC) section supports the development and enhancement of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) research capacity by helping individuals and teams develop abilities to perform research effectively, efficiently and in a sustainable manner. 

RCC focuses on:

  • Fostering STEM opportunities for all Americans and developing capacity for creation of a more integrated and engaged research enterprise.
  • Supporting research and innovation capacity in U.S. states and territories through the building of intellectual bridges within and across institutions and organizations of all types.
  • Providing pathways for the exploration of ideas that are intellectually risky and potentially transformative in scientific and societal impact.
  • Facilitating education and training programs at all levels to ensure the availability of a capable STEM workforce.
  • Supporting development and facilitation of multi-institutional sector and community partnerships.

About RCC

The section supports the development and enhancement of STEM research capacity and competitiveness of individuals, institutions, states, territories and regions historically underserved by the U.S. National Science Foundation's (NSF) research and development funding.

RCC provides grants that encourage innovation and entrepreneurship. The section is home to NSF's Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) program.

RCC was formerly named the Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) Section. 

What we support

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Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR)

EPSCoR focuses on enhancing the research competitiveness of targeted jurisdictions (state, territory or commonwealth) by strengthening STEM capacity and capability through a diverse portfolio of investments: from talent development to local infrastructure.

Learn more about EPSCoR

Contact us

If you have questions for the RCC team, please email nsfepscor@nsf.gov.

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