Become an INFORMS Ambassador
The INFORMS Ambassadors Program funds member- and staff-led projects that strengthen the INFORMS community. Selected Ambassadors receive up to $2,000 per person, to a maximum of $4,000 per project, plus staff support, recognition, and a network of peers to turn ideas into action. Up to 10 projects will be funded for 2027.
Any current or new INFORMS member, and any INFORMS staff member, can apply on their own or with a small team of 2 to 4 people.
Applications due: Monday, November 9, 2026
Apply: https://informs-awards.secure-platform.com/a/solicitations/361/home
Why Apply?
The Ambassadors Program lets members and staff develop and lead projects that advance learning, expand opportunity, strengthen community, and improve the member experience. Selected Ambassadors receive:
- Funding of up to $2,000 per person, to a maximum of $4,000 per project
- Collaboration with fellow Ambassadors
- Visibility across the INFORMS community
- Staff support and institutional resources
- Recognition for meaningful contributions to the profession
Who Can Apply?
Any current or new INFORMS member, and any INFORMS staff member, can apply. The community spans:
- Undergraduate and graduate students
- Postdoctoral researchers
- Academic professionals
- Industry practitioners
- Recent graduates
- INFORMS staff
Apply on your own or as a small team of 2 to 4 people. First-time applicants and past Ambassadors with a new idea are welcome.
What Kinds of Projects Get Funded?
The program funds member- and staff-led projects that strengthen the INFORMS community and expand opportunity across the profession. Funded work has spanned:
- Education and student outreach, K-12 through graduate
- Community building and professional connection
- Mentorship and professional development
- Member engagement, retention, and experience
- Applied analytics projects in academia and industry
- Organizational initiatives that improve how INFORMS serves members
Focus Areas for 2027
Alongside these areas, we invite proposals in three focus areas for 2027:
- Analyze INFORMS member and stakeholder survey data to guide product development and identify where INFORMS can add the most value, including retention and engagement
- Analyze member and participant data to strengthen retention across career stage and work setting, including why members join, lapse, or return
- Pilot the INFORMS Analytics Framework as a practical tool for students and professionals applying analytics to real problems in academia or industry
Proven Impact
Since 2020, the Ambassadors Program has funded 58 projects. They have launched new INFORMS forums, established awards recognizing research that benefits society, produced modern and more accessible teaching tools, and expanded how the profession engages with the world. Recent projects range from large-scale K-12 STEM outreach to new member resources and applied analytics work.
Source: OR/MS Today article on the INFORMS Ambassadors Program.
What Is Expected of Ambassadors
Ambassadors serve a one-year term ending December 31, 2027. The expected commitment includes:
- Complete the proposed project
- Attend a virtual kickoff in January and semiannual progress check-ins
- Submit a one-page executive summary by August 1, 2027
- Present a talk at the INFORMS Annual Meeting
- Create a short video about the project for social media or the INFORMS website
Standout projects may be invited to publish an article in OR/MS Today.
Be Part of Something Bigger
The Ambassadors Program is more than a grant. It is a community of members and staff committed to giving back to the profession and creating positive change. If you have an idea and the drive to lead it, apply today and help shape the future of INFORMS.
Apply: https://informs-awards.secure-platform.com/a/solicitations/361/home
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the INFORMS Ambassadors Program?
It is a program that funds INFORMS members and staff to lead projects that strengthen the community across areas like teaching, workplace practices, research, engagement, and outreach. It provides funding, connection, and recognition. Up to 10 projects will be funded for 2027.
Who can apply?
Any current or new INFORMS member, and any INFORMS staff member. Apply on your own or as a team of 2 to 4 people.
How much funding is available?
Up to $2,000 per person, to a maximum of $4,000 per project. Some projects may request less, or none.
How many projects will be funded?
Up to 10 for the 2027 cycle.
When is the deadline?
Proposals are due Monday, November 9, 2026. Selected Ambassadors will be announced in January. Projects run during 2027.
What is the time commitment?
A one-year term ending December 31, 2027, including a January kickoff, semiannual check-ins, a one-page summary by August 1, 2027, a talk at the INFORMS Annual Meeting, and a short project video.
How do I apply?
Submit through the awards portal. Materials include a 1 to 2 page proposal, a budget, a CV or resume, and letters of recommendation or commitment if applicable.
Who do I contact with questions?
[email protected]
Apply through the awards portal: https://informs-awards.secure-platform.com/a/solicitations/361/home