Global Seed Funds

Leverage the power of international collaboration to tackle today’s complex global issues.
Two women working in a lab

GSF enables MIT faculty to launch research projects with peers at universities and public research institutions around the world.

GSF is comprised of several funds available for collaborations with different countries, regions or institutions, and a general fund for projects in any country. Funds are used to support travel and meeting costs for in-person exchange between the collaborating teams.

Each year, approximately $2 million is awarded to over 100 proposals. Since its inception in 2008, GSF has awarded more than $30 million to enable some 1,300 faculty research collaborations.

Guidelines
Learn more about GSF eligibility, application process and selection criteria.
Guidelines and FAQs
Funds Available
Alongside our general fund — which supports collaborations between MIT faculty and researchers anywhere in the world — we also offer specialized funds tailored to specific regions, countries, and universities.
View current funds
Application
Access the GSF online application portal and review the steps to submit your application for funding your collaborative research project.
Apply now
Managing Your Grant
Discover how to apply your GSF funds towards specific costs, including travel reimbursements, meeting facilitation, and arranging faculty and student visits.
Learn more
GSF Advisory Committee
The GSF Advisory Committee oversees the process for awarding GSF grants.
View the Advisory Committee
Current Winners
The GSF winners for the 2025-2026 cycle.
View current winners