Office of the Vice President for Research

Dear Colleagues,

The University of Utah is strategically collecting ideas for the 2025 cycle of the Engineering and Computer Science Initiative sponsored by Talent Ready Utah. Established in 2001, the Engineering and Computer Science Initiative established a goal to increase the number of students graduating from engineering, computer science, and related technology programs. In 2025, the Utah Legislature, through SB 03, allocated an additional $4 million of ongoing legislative appropriations towards the direct costs associated with expanding and creating engineering and computer science degree programs at Utah System of Higher Education degree-granting institutions. This initiative is vital for addressing workforce shortages, driving industry growth, and securing high-wage careers.

The Request for Proposals (RFP) document for this opportunity can be found HERE and should be reviewed in full before preparing an application. The primary objectives of this program are to:

• Expand engineering and computer science program offerings
• Foster innovation to address emerging workforce needs
• Modernize lab infrastructure to reflect industry standards

While there is no limit to the number of applications submitted from the University of Utah, we are asking UofU faculty with interest in this opportunity to submit an “Intent-to-Apply” to this internal competition. Doing so will allow for a strategic and coordinated response from the University of Utah, ensure efforts are not duplicated, and give University leadership the ability to connect applicants with resources such as proposal guidance, cross-campus collaborations, etc. when necessary. The structure of this intent-to-apply submission portal is meant to be aligned with the requirements of the full submission to the sponsor.

Intent-to-apply applications are due by 11:59pm (MST) on May 6, 2025.  Full proposals to the sponsor are due by 5:00pm (MST) on May 23, 2025.  “Intent-to-Apply” applications must be submitted via the InfoReady competition portal.

 CLICK HERE to access the intent-to-apply competition portal.

USHE is hosting an RFP Informational Session/Q&A on Monday, April 28^th from 11:00am-12:00pm (click HERE to register!) Potential applicants and others interested in the Engineering and Computer Science Initiative are encouraged to attend. Talent Ready Utah staff will be present to share information and answer questions. A recording of this webinar will also be emailed to all registered participants and posted on the Talent Ready Utah webpage.

Questions about this program or intent-to-apply competition can be directed to Tyler Matsamas in the VPR Office. Tyler will coordinate with appropriate leadership to respond to questions.

Thank you!