The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation aims to make a meaningful impact by supporting outstanding inventors and innovators who utilize science and technology to improve the conduct of scientific research, enhance environmental conservation, and improve patient care outcomes. By focusing on critical prototyping stages, the foundation seeks to empower promising inventors with the freedom and support needed for pursuing creative and disruptive innovations.
The Moore Inventor Fellows grant program is dedicated to nurturing early-career scientists and inventors who have the potential to transform the fields of scientific research, environmental conservation, and patient care through new tools, technologies, processes, or approaches. With a total commitment of nearly $34 million through 2026, the program supports 50 fellows by providing substantial funding and the necessary freedom to develop prototypes and innovations that may not have otherwise been possible. Eligible candidates include faculty, research scientists, postdocs, or full-time staff within 10 years of receiving their terminal advanced degree, who are affiliated with select research universities, medical schools, and non-academic environmental and patient care institutions. Each fellow receives $200,000 per year for three years, plus an additional $25,000 per year for host institution administrative costs, aiming for a total impact of $675,000 per fellow over the course of the fellowship. Institutions are encouraged to support their nominees with additional direct contributions.