NSF ENGINGES: SOUTHWEST SUSTAINABILITY INNOVATION ENGINE

The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency that support science and engineering mainly through making grants.

This proposal was among the first proposals selected by the NSF to a Regional Innovation Engines. The NSF will fund the Southwest Sustainability Innovation Engine's initial development and growth with $15 million over the next two years. The engine can be renewed for up to 10 years with $160 million in funding available for each Regional Engine.

NSF Engines: Southwest Sustainability Innovation Engine (SWSIE), led by Arizona State University and extends three states - Arizona, Nevada and Utah - is elevating the Southwest as a regional hub of economic development catalyzed by sustainable innovation.

The effects of climate change are acutely evident in the American Southwest, from the desertification of Utah’s Great Salt Lake to record-breaking extreme heat in Arizona and a dwindling supply of Colorado River water reaching Nevada.

SWSIE will use these challenges to catalyze economic opportunity and seeks to establish the Southwest as a leader in carbon capture, water security and renewable energy, and bring high-wage industries to the region. Southwest Sustainability Innovation Engine unites academic, community, nonprofit and industry partners across Arizona, Nevada and Utah that are committed to this goal. 

The primary institutions involved include Arizona State University (Lead), the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, University of Utah, the Desert Research Institute, the Water Research Foundation, SciTech Institute and Maricopa Community Colleges. Place Collaborative was instrumental in the industry and community collaboration partnerships.

NSF Grant-2315479