IBER's researchers have historically done well in the grand competition for research funds. Beginning in the 1960s, our researchers relied principally on funding from federal sources such as the National Science Foundation. Over the last two decades, however, the National Institutes of Health have become the most important source of funding for research by economists and other social scientists. Now, over a third of our research funding comes from NIH, with another 19% coming from the National Science Foundation.  Various other federal agencies (33%), local and foreign governments (3%) and foundations (10%) are also important sources of funding.

For funding to come in, proposals must go out. In a typical year, IBER submits 50 to 60 proposals to outside funders on behalf of our affiliated investigators.  During the most recent year for which we have complete data, thirty-two proposals were eventually funded, in line with the Institute’s high historic success rate.

IBER research comes in two flavors:  Centers and individual research projects.  Each of our principal Research Centers has a web page describing its focus, activities, and personnel.  Over 67 (as of August 2011) individual faculty research projects funded by extramural” grants are listed on “Faculty Research Funded by Outside Grants".  Using gifts made by IBER donors, the Institute uses mini-grants for directly funding dozens of research projects by graduate students—tomorrow’s teachers and researchers.

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