The Spencer Foundation Research-Practice Partnerships (RPP) Grants Program supports collaborative education research conducted through sustained partnerships between researchers and practitioners or policymakers. The programme aims to generate actionable knowledge that improves educational practice, policy, and equity through long-term, participatory research collaborations.

Grants provide up to $400,000 in funding for projects lasting up to 3 years. Eligible applicants must be part of established partnerships involving academic researchers and education practitioners, such as school districts, universities, community organisations, or policy institutions, with at least one PI affiliated with a non-profit or public institution serving as the administering organisation.

The programme supports a wide range of research activities, including empirical studies, design-based research, and policy-oriented investigations, as well as capacity-building, infrastructure development, and partnership-strengthening activities such as data systems, communication, and stakeholder engagement. A strong emphasis is placed on equity, collaboration, and the co-production of knowledge.

Applications are submitted in a two-stage process, beginning with a pre-proposal, followed by a full proposal upon invitation. Projects are expected to demonstrate a well-established partnership history, clear governance structures, and a compelling plan for both research and practice impact.