JINLUN

now accepting research grant applications

2026-01-22

Summary:

The FIA Technical Committee invites proposals in all forging research areas, with particular interest in:

  • Automation, Ergonomics & Robotics
  • Carbon Emission Reduction and Environmental, Including Recycling
  • Die Materials, Surface Technologies and Die Repair
  • Forging for Extreme Environments (hypersonics, chemical, nuclear, sub sea, space, and sub zero)
  • Forging Industry Equipment Lifecycle Extension
  • Forging Lubrication
  • Forging Specific Workforce Development
  • Industry 4.0 & Digital Manufacturing Including AI or Machine Learning
  • Inspection Techniques
  • Lightweighting
  • Materials Characterization
  • Metallic Materials Development (additive, hybrid processes, metal matrix composites, and cast and wrought manufacturing)
  • Metallurgical Processing and Process Design, from Primary Melting Through Forging, Heat Treatment and Joining
  • Process Simulation, Including Microstructural / Mechanical Property Prediction
  • Industry Materials of Interest (connect with your industry partner to determine a specific alloy):
    • Titanium
    • Nickel-based Superalloys
    • Steel (for forged products or forge tooling)
    • Aluminum

Please Note: This list is not exclusive and the committee invites proposals on all areas of forging research & technology.

Click here to see previously funded projects. Contact FIA Technical Director Dekland Barnum (dekland@forging.org) for guidance or to discuss project ideas.

Grant Requests Due February 15, 2026

FIERF funds university and community college research that advances forging science and engages students.

Projects over $20,000 or longer than 1 year: use the Stage Gate Grant Request Form
Projects under $20,000 and ≤1 year: use the Small Project Grant Request Form
All proposals must:

Include industry-relevant deliverables aligned with the 2022 Forging Industry Technology Roadmap
Follow the Grant Policies and Procedures
Be submitted to foundation@forging.org by February 15, 2026
Need an industry partner? The foundation can help connect you.

Industry Participation Necessary for Successful Projects

FIA Member companies play a vital role in the research projects funded by FIA’s Forging Foundation (FIERF) by advising researchers, reviewing/approving project reports submitted by researchers, providing facilities support, and offering internships to students.

For involvement details, see the Grant Policies and Procedures or contact:

Amanda Dureiko at amanda@forging.org | 216-781-6260
Not an FIA Member? Contact Tricia Abruzzino (tricia@forging.org | 216-781-6260) to learn more.
Get Involved with FIERF

Partnering with FIERF supports workforce development, industry-aligned research, and unique networking opportunities.

Visit FIERF.org
Follow FIERF on LinkedIn
Share your workforce development success stories: foundation@forging.org
Contact the foundation with any questions about how they can support you. 

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