George Mason University’s Grand Challenge Initiative (GCI) is designed to foster transformative growth across the university community and accelerate the development of solutions to society’s most pressing challenges. Building on the momentum of GCI Exchange Day, the Office of Research, Innovation, and Economic Impact (ORIEI) will host the Grand Challenge Exchange Lightning Talks and Mixer on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, from 1–4 p.m. in Merten Hall, Room 1204. This event is open to all George Mason faculty and potential partners, whether you are planning to submit a proposal, looking for collaborators, or simply interested in learning more about innovative research taking place across the university.
Interested in presenting? Submit a 100-word research idea summary by October 26, 2026. Each presenter will have three minutes to share their concept and collaboration needs.
RSVP to attend or submit an idea of a lightning talk
Grand Challenge Initiative Office Hours
If you are considering submitting a proposal and would like to talk through your ideas, eligibility, project scope, budgeting, timelines, or any other aspect of the application process, we encourage you to attend one of these informal sessions. Whether you have a specific question or are simply exploring whether GCI is a good fit for your work, ORIEI is happy to help.
GCI Office Hours
Friday, October 16, 9 to 10 am
Monday, October 26, 4 to 5 pm
Monday, November 16, 9 to 10 am
Thursday, December 3, 3:30 to 4:30 pm
Monday, December 14, 11 am to 12 pm
Grand Challenge Initiative Key Dates:
Grand Challenge Exchange Lightening Talks and Mixer: November 10, 2026, 1pm-4pm
Letter of Intent to Lead School/College Dean’s Office: December 4, 2026
Proposal Due Date: February 15, 2027, by 11:59pm
Award Decisions: anticipated April 30, 2027
Funding Begins: No later than July 1, 2027