Which group primarily benefits from NSF's "Broader Impacts" criterion?

The "Broader Impacts" criterion is a fundamental aspect of the National Science Foundation's (NSF) proposal review process. It emphasizes the importance of achieving societal benefits through scientific research. This criterion encourages projects to consider how their findings can enhance the well-being of the general public and contribute to various facets of society, including education, health, the economy, and the environment.

When researchers incorporate the Broader Impacts criterion into their proposals, they are expected to outline how their project will foster public engagement with science, promote diversity and inclusion in STEM fields, enhance learning experiences for students, or lead to societal advancements. This criterion is significant because it underscores the NSF's commitment to not only advancing scientific knowledge but also to ensuring that the benefits of research extend beyond the confines of academic circles.

The scientific community, while engaged in research, does not exclusively gain from this focus; it is the general public and society at large that stand to gain the most, as they are likely to experience the direct consequences of enhanced research outcomes. This holistic view aligns with the NSF's mission to serve as a catalyst for societal progress through scientific innovation.