Unlocking broader impacts
The broader impacts of a research project are those components that, beyond the advancement of knowledge, have the potential to benefit society and contribute to achievement of specific desired societal outcomes. The NSF requires proposals to address the broader impacts in addition to the intellectual merit of the project.
What qualifies as broader impacts?
The goals of broader impacts include, but are not limited to, the following:
- STEM education: Improving education and educator development -at any level- in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
- Public engagement: Increasing public scientific literacy and public engagement with STEM.
- Societal well-being: Improving the well being of individuals in society.
- STEM workforce: Developing a globally competitive stem workforce.
- Partnership: Building partnerships between academia, industries and others.
- National Security: Improving national security.
- Economic competitiveness: Increasing the economic competitiveness of the U.S.
- Infrastructure: Enhancing infrastructure for research and education.
Three tips for stronger broader impacts
- Start early. Broader impacts are most effective when they are built into the research plan from the beginning. Engaging collaborators early allows you to design meaningful activities, identify effective assessments, and plan the budget more accurately.
- Be specific. Reviewers expect the same level of detail in the broader impacts section as in the research plan. Clearly defining your audience, setting measurable goals, outlining implementation and assessment methods, and citing current best practices will strengthen your proposal.
- Follow through. Strong broader impacts require realistic planning and consistent reporting. Document your outcomes, explore opportunities to publish results with collaborators, and use the experience to improve future proposals.
Contact us
Mary Strawderman
Research development administrator
Division of Research Development
