APS Innovation Fund
The APS Innovation Fund offers pilot or supplemental funding to support members in launching innovative projects that address challenges in the physics community while advancing the APS mission of fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community committed to science and societal impact.
2025 Application Theme: Capacity Building for Education and Careers in Climate Science
The 2025 Innovation Fund application theme aims to empower physics departments, educators, and industry leaders to create or expand programs that enhance access, deepen knowledge, and increase opportunities in physics-based climate science education and career pathways. It also strives to showcase physics's vital role in advancing climate science and addressing global challenges.
The pre-proposal deadline has passed.
Duration
The funding period lasts up to eighteen months.
Funding details
The APS Innovation Fund awards up to five grants, each valued at $50,000.
Regarding indirect costs, overhead is allowed but limited to a maximum of 5% of the grant budget. The requested budget, including overhead, must not exceed $50,000.
Award funds will be issued to the PI’s institution on a reimbursement basis.
Rules and eligibility
To submit a proposal, you:
- Must be an APS member
- May be a U.S.-based or an international applicant at any career stage to apply as a principal investigator (PI) with a maximum of two optional co-PIs
- Must provide a letter of support from an advisor or department if you are applying as a student, postdoc, or are in another training position
Process and selection
- May: Deadline for pre-proposals
- July: Finalists are invited to submit a full proposal
- August: Deadline for finalists to submit full proposals
- November: Grant recipients notified
- January 2026: Award start date
Establishment and support
The APS Innovation Fund encourages collaborative partnerships among APS members, APS units and committees, and APS staff to develop new approaches to advancing the interests of the physics community.
Recent recipients
Mario Borunda
2024 recipient
For an immersive summer program on quantum information science designed for Indigenous middle and high school students to explore the intersection of modern science and culture.
Chris Cesare
2024 recipient
For engaging and educating content creators with compelling and trustworthy information about the past, present, and future of quantum science and technology.
Cecilia China
2024 recipient
For addressing global barriers to teaching and understanding quantum concepts for K-12 students.
Julius de Rojas
2024 recipient
For an immersive summer program on quantum information science designed for Indigenous middle and high school students to explore the intersection of modern science and culture.
John Donohue
2024 recipient
For addressing global barriers to teaching and understanding quantum concepts for K-12 students.
APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.
Nominees for and holders of APS Honors (prizes, awards, and fellowship) and official leadership positions are expected to meet standards of professional conduct and integrity as described in the APS Ethics Standards. Violations of these standards may disqualify people from consideration or lead to revocation of honors or removal from office.