2025-26 ASPIRE 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, or ASPIRE 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 has evolved over the years, always with the goal of advancing USC faculty research by funding meritorious research projects across disciplines. For the 2025-26 funding cycle, ASPIRE continues to emphasize support for early-career faculty who intend to pursue subsequent extramural funding.
If you have questions about the ASPIRE program, please contact Emily Devereux, Associate Vice President for Research Development.
ASPIRE Request for proposals and application materials
ASPIRE proposals for 2025-26 are due
by 5pm January 21, 2026
ASPIRE Review Rubric (pdf)
NEW beginning 2025-26 - ASPIRE 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.
Budget Instructions and Forms
Instructions and forms for documenting and justifying ASPIRE funding requests.
USCeRA Submission Instructions (pdf)
This document provides a step-by-step guide that may be helpful in submitting your proposal through USCeRA.
Submit your final internal funding report
To submit your final ASPIRE report, please complete the VPR Internal Grant Report Form.