NEURO360, led by WashU and BioSTL, has announced it has not been selected to proceed to the next phase of the National Science Foundation (NSF) Engines competition. The initiative had been competing with regions across the country for up to $160 million in NSF funding over 10 years to build regional-scale innovation ecosystems. Despite this outcome, the initiative remains committed to fostering a robust, self-sustaining neuroscience innovation ecosystem in St. Louis.
Since its launch, NEURO360 has worked to advance neuroscience innovation that addresses human health challenges and deepens understanding of the brain. Despite this funding setback, its goals remain unchanged. The initiative continues to focus on growing the regional innovation ecosystem, supporting commercialization, training a skilled neuroscience workforce, engaging the community, and attracting new investment.
Today, NEURO360’s partnership network includes over 50 organizations contributing more than $60 million in resources to these shared goals.
St. Louis offers an exceptional environment for neuroscience innovation, anchored by a range of distinctive strengths:
These advantages position the region for continued progress in neuroscience.
NEURO360’s original NSF Engines Development Award played a critical role in laying the groundwork for this growth. It enabled the expansion of neuroscience company engagement, workforce training initiatives, new partnerships, and community outreach programs. This earlier support helped strengthen collaboration throughout the region and build momentum that will continue into future efforts.
NEURO360 remains dedicated to fostering innovation that addresses some of the most pressing neurological and mental health challenges. The initiative will continue to advance research translation, commercialization, and the development of a strong talent pipeline to support human well-being, prosperity, and national security.
Collaboration among research institutions, industry partners, economic development groups, and the broader community will remain central to these goals.
NEURO360 continues to build on the region’s world-class assets and a growing network of committed partners working to position St. Louis as a global hub for neuroscience innovation.
For updates on this mission, details about the partnership network, and opportunities to get involved, visit NEURO360.
