2025-26 ASPIRE AI Request for Proposals (pdf)
The RFP contains details, guidance, and links for the current funding cycle.
The Office of the Vice President for Research is proud to invest in USC's present and future research excellence through the Advanced Support for Innovative Research Excellence in Artificial Intelligence, or ASPIRE AI program. Since 2012, ASPIRE has been one of the university's primary funding mechanisms to support research by USC faculty at all levels, across all campuses. ASPIRE AI expands the reach of this program to include research projects focused specifically on artificial intelligence.
The goal of ASPIRE AI is to advance USC faculty research on artificial intelligence by funding meritorious research projects across disciplines. ASPIRE AI particularly emphasizes support for faculty integrating and developing novel AI applications who intend to pursue subsequent extramural funding, as well as interdisciplinary teams who combine AI expertise with domain knowledge.
If you have questions about the ASPIRE AI program, please contact Emily Devereux, Associate Vice President for Research Development.
ASPIRE AI Request for proposals and application materials
ASPIRE AI proposals for 2025-26 are due
by 5 p.m. on February 18, 2026
ASPIRE AI Review Rubric (pdf)
NEW beginning 2025-26 - ASPIRE AI proposals will be evaluated using this rubric by a peer review panel. Applicants are encouraged to use the rubric during proposal development.
Current and Pending Support Form (docx)
Use this form to disclose other internal or external grant funds for this or other projects (submitted or secured, or to indicate no current funding). Form required for lead PI only.
USCeRA Submission Instructions (pdf)
This document provides a step-by-step guide that may be helpful in submitting your proposal through USCeRA.
Research Toolbox
This toolbox provides a number of helpful instructions and links that may help you complete your proposal.
Submit your final internal funding report
To submit your final ASPIRE AI report, please complete the VPR Internal Grant Report Form.
To submit your final ASPIRE AI report, please complete the VPR Internal Grant Report Form.