Education Department offers millions for special-education research projects
Published Date: 10/20/2026
Notice
Summary
The Department of Education is opening applications for two exciting special education research grants in 2027. Schools and research groups can apply by December 11 for up to $500,000 or $3.75 million to develop new ways to improve teaching and learning for students with disabilities. These grants focus on turning research into real-world solutions and transforming teacher training to boost student success.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Seedlings-to-Scale Grants: $500K One-Year
The From Seedlings to Scale (ALN 84.305J) Phase One grant will award up to $500,000 for a one-year project. You must submit a complete proposal through Grants.gov by 11:59:59 p.m. Eastern time on December 11, 2026; eligible applicants include institutions of higher education and non-profit, for-profit, public, or private organizations able to conduct scientifically valid research. The competition is limited to Phase One applications addressing the C-STEP coordinating-systems focus area.
Transformative Special Ed Grants: $3.75M Three-Year
The Transformative Research in Special Education (ALN 84.324T) Phase One grant will award up to $3,750,000 for a three-year project to research and develop transformative solutions for preservice teacher education systems. You must submit a complete proposal through Grants.gov by 11:59:59 p.m. Eastern time on December 11, 2026; eligible applicants include institutions of higher education and non-profit, for-profit, public, or private organizations able to conduct scientifically valid research. The program specifically invites Phase One proposals focused on dramatically improving how preK–12 general and special education teachers are attracted, trained, and retained to improve outcomes for students with or at risk for disabilities.
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