The records document the development, administration, and evaluation of the Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research in South Dakota, with an emphasis on proposals submitted to the National Science Foundation and related federal agencies from the late 1970s through the early twenty first century. The materials include advanced development proposals, implementation proposals, component research proposals, preproposals, budgets, cooperative agreements, and addenda. Also present are annual, semi annual, and year end reports, evaluation summaries, site visit documentation, progress and financial reports, publications, newsletters, meeting minutes, conference materials, and correspondence. The collection reflects a wide range of scientific and engineering research areas, including chemistry, biology, geosciences, physics, environmental science, nanotechnology, and interdisciplinary research initiatives. Administrative files document collaboration with state agencies, the South Dakota Board of Regents, participating universities, and national organizations, as well as graduate fellowship programs, assistantships, and outreach and educational activities.

These records document South Dakota’s participation in federally funded research capacity building initiatives and illustrate efforts to strengthen scientific research infrastructure, support faculty and student research, and promote collaboration among higher education institutions. The materials offer valuable evidence of the state’s evolving research priorities, the role of EPSCoR in expanding competitiveness for federal funding, and the integration of research, education, and economic development strategies within South Dakota’s higher education system.