Verticals-enabling Intelligent Network Systems

The Verticals-enabling Intelligent Network Systems (VINES) program, initiated by the National Science Foundation (NSF), seeks to catalyze advancements in next-generation (NextG) intelligent network systems. This multi-sector initiative is managed by the NSF’s Directorate for Computer and Information Science and Engineering, in partnership with several domestic agencies like the Department of Homeland Security and the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and international partners including agencies from Finland, Japan, India, and Sweden. Industry partners including Ericsson, Intel, and Qualcomm provide financial support for Track 1 of the program. VINES emphasizes the strategic role of telecommunications and aims to position the United States as a leader in advanced network technologies and vertical application domains. The primary objective of the VINES program is to fund transformative research and technology translation projects that significantly enhance the performance and resilience of NextG networks across the user-edge-core-cloud continuum. Two tracks define the structure of this solicitation. Track 1 supports use-inspired fundamental research aimed at developing innovative networking techniques. Track 2 focuses on the development, demonstration, and translation of mature NextG networking technologies into vertical applications, targeting higher technology readiness levels (TRLs). Proposals are expected to explore topics including AI-native design, spectrum sharing, integrated sensing and communications, and enhanced network accessibility, resilience, and energy efficiency. Eligible applicants for Track 1 include U.S.-based institutions of higher education and non-profit, non-academic organizations. For Track 2, eligibility expands to include for-profit organizations, state and local governments, and tribal nations. Proposals must be led by individuals with primary, full-time appointments at eligible U.S. institutions. While Track 1 excludes direct involvement from industry partners in proposal development or collaboration, Track 2 encourages academic-industry partnerships and mandates a demonstration of proposed solutions in at-scale testbeds. Applicants must submit full proposals through Research.gov or Grants.gov by 5 p.m. local time on August 25, 2025, for Track 1 and by September 25, 2025, for Track 2. A mandatory Concept Outline for Track 2 must be submitted by August 25, 2025, to determine the project's fit. There are specific limits on the number of submissions per investigator across both tracks. The merit review process will follow NSF's established criteria, with additional track-specific evaluation considerations. Funding for Track 1 proposals can reach up to $1.5 million for U.S.-only teams and up to $750,000 for the U.S. component of international collaborations. Track 2 awards may be as high as $6 million for up to three years. Up to 30 awards are anticipated for Track 1 and up to 10 for Track 2, contingent on proposal quality and funding availability. NSF will manage all awards, and intellectual property rights are governed by federal statutes and NSF policies, with specific licensing expectations outlined for industry-supported Track 1 projects. For further assistance, applicants may contact any of the listed NSF program officers, including Alhussein A. Abouzeid (aabouzei@nsf.gov, 703-292-7855) and Sudharman Jayaweera Kankanamge (sjayawee@nsf.gov, 703-292-2828), among others. Informational webinars will be scheduled and announced on the program webpage following publication of the solicitation.

Utilize national testbeds, avoid proprietary commitments with industry partners (Track 1), ensure synergy in international proposals, follow PAPPG guide