# Simpler Grants.gov #ED-GRANTS-101526-002

Phase 1 research grants to transform special education teacher preparation

**Buyer:** Department of Education
**Posted:** October 16, 2026
**Respond By:** December 12, 2026
**Identifier:** ED-GRANTS-101526-002
**NAICS:** 541720, 611710

The U.S. Department of Education is offering Phase 1 grants to develop transformative research solutions for special education teacher preparation.
- **Government buyer:** U.S. Department of Education, Institute of Education Sciences (IES), National Center for Special Education Research (NCSER).
- **Opportunity:** Transformative Research in Special Education Grants, Assistance Listing Number 84.324T.
- **Phase 1 focus:** Research and develop scalable solutions that improve preservice teacher education systems’ ability to attract, train, and retain preK–12 general and special education teachers serving students with or at risk for disabilities.
- **Award limits:** Up to 3 years, with a maximum of $1,250,000 per year and $3,750,000 total.
- **Key requirements:** Applicants must provide a theory of change linking improved teacher outcomes to student outcomes, plan for co-design partners, and establish those partners by the end of Year 1. Cost sharing of at least 5% of total federal funds must also be secured by the end of Year 1.
- **Potential follow-on:** Successful Phase 1 teams may be eligible for a Phase 2 award to extend the work and develop evidence of effects on teacher education systems, educators, and students. Phase 2 is subject to eligibility and funding availability, and may run up to 2 years with a maximum of $1,500,000 per year and $3,000,000 total.
- **Applicants and suppliers:** Eligible applicants are institutions and organizations capable of conducting scientifically valid research. No OEMs, vendors, or commercial products are named; this is a grant opportunity, not a product purchase.

### Description

The Institute of Education Sciences seeks applications for Phase 1 grants to research and develop transformative solutions that improve special education. For FY 2027, projects should focus on improving preservice teacher education systems to better attract, train, and retain preK-12 general and special education teachers prepared to support students with or at risk for disabilities. Eligible applicants include institutions and organizations with the capacity to conduct scientifically valid research. Cost sharing is required, and the maximum award is $3,750,000.

[View original listing](https://simpler.grants.gov/opportunity/364087)