PIN Community Research Grants

The PIN Community Research Grants program supports university researchers and local governments in Georgia to tackle community issues through applied research and smart technology. Offering $100,000 per project, it fosters partnerships and enhances community goals. Alumni projects have gained national recognition and additional funding, serving as models for similar initiatives. This program not only aids local development but also strengthens collaborations across the southeastern U.S., making a significant impact on local residents and their needs.

The Community Research Grant Program, formerly known as the Georgia Smart Communities Challenge, is a competitive program that supports teams of university researchers and local governments of any size across Georgia and expanding new partnerships across the southeast U.S. as well—by providing base funding of $100,000 per project, program management, access to the Partnership’s Summer Internship Program and a network of peers. Alumni cities and counties have successfully implemented their projects and garnered additional funding and technical assistance to continue their project beyond the program period, continuing to serve their residents and meet their community’s goals. They have also garnered national recognition for their projects and served as a model for other communities in addressing similar problems. Projects are focused on addressing a community problem with applied research involving smart technology and/or civic innovation.