Jackson State University & The University of Southern Mississippi – NSF Engine Development Award Assistance

Challenge

Mississippi ranks at or near the bottom of national standings for critical health metrics like diabetes and heart disease that tie directly to insufficient healthy food access, affordability, and nutrition. Along with food security, the state also faces challenges related to social equity and climate, particularly in the Gulf Coast region which includes urban cities like Jackson and Hattiesburg and rural areas in the west. The area is also home to several differentiating assets, including well-established research universities, large quantities of productive agricultural land, and a growing number of small farms and startups investing in relevant technologies. This unique combination of urgent needs and key assets makes the region an exciting candidate for innovative solutions.

Response

Formally launched in May 2022 as part of the CHIPS and Science Act, the National Science Foundation Regional Innovation Engines (NSF Engines) program is designed to support collaborative efforts that advance critical technologies, address societal challenges, cultivate cross-sector partnerships, and stimulate economic growth (especially in historically underserved communities). In May 2023, Jackson State University, in partnership with The University of Southern Mississippi, received a $1 million NSF Engines Development Award to define the scope and potential impact of the Engine and to support the development of a formal proposal for an implementation award of up to $160 million. Representing 41 counties in Mississippi, the MSFIRST (Mississippi Food Innovation for a Resilient and Sustainable Tomorrow) Engine seeks to improve health outcomes and economic equity in the state by enhancing the food security ecosystem and related environmental sustainability. TIP was engaged to provide strategic planning and advisory services to help shape the initiative and support the preparation of a successful Engines application. The preliminary proposal was submitted in August 2024. In October 2024, the NSF announced the results of a highly competitive review process that invited select applicants to proceed to the full proposal phase. Although MSFIRST did not advance, leadership remains committed to pursuing other potential funding opportunities and the piloting of specific strategic initiatives that emerged from the planning stage.