U.S. Invests in Smarter Education Solutions

What Is the EIR Program?

The U.S. Department of Education runs the Education Innovation and Research (EIR) program to support new ideas that improve student learning. The program provides funding for projects that are backed by research and focused on solving real challenges in schools.

EIR helps educators and researchers work together to find out what works, test it in classrooms, and scale the best solutions across the country. The goal is to improve education for high-need students and close learning gaps in a practical and lasting way.

What EIR Supports

EIR funds projects at three stages of development. Each stage helps ideas grow from early tests to large-scale programs.

These include

•  Early-phase projects that try out new ideas with small groups of students
•  Mid-phase projects that build on early success and reach more schools
•  Expansion projects that bring proven strategies to many districts and states

The program focuses on areas like reading, math, college readiness, mental health, and support for English learners and students with disabilities. Projects must show strong plans for research, learning outcomes, and practical use in schools.

Why It Matters

Many schools want to improve student learning but lack the funding or research support to try new ideas. EIR helps fill that gap by giving educators the tools and partnerships they need to make a difference.

By focusing on evidence-based solutions, the program avoids guesswork. It helps schools invest in what actually works and builds knowledge that others can use. EIR also supports programs that can adapt to different communities and student needs.