External Research Associates Program (ERAP)

ERAP is a contractual program (not an academic grant) whereby the USG pays for scholarly research and analysis on issues of concern to those institutions responsible for U.S. national security and strategy, but especially to the U.S. Army and to the Department of Defense. All international scholars and other experts who are not affiliated with the U.S. military, the U.S. Government, or for-profit consulting firms are eligible. The selection process is highly competitive, and interested parties are encouraged to refer to the USAWC's Key Strategic Issues List (KSIL), available online, for a range of relevant topics. The expected end-product of an ERAP contract is a well-written, well-researched monograph of 40-50 pages that contains substantive recommendations for U.S. policy; it is deliverable within one year of the date the contract is awarded. Payment occurs after the product has been received, reviewed, and accepted by SSI.

Examples of SSI publications supported by ERAP:

• Dilemmas of Brazilian Grand Strategy. Authored by Dr. Hal Brands
• David Galula: His Life and Intellectual Context. Authored by Ms. Ann Marlowe
• Organizing to Compete in the Political Terrain. Authored by Dr. Nadia Schadlow
• Sufism in Northern Nigeria: A Force for Counter-Radicalization? Authored by Dr. Jonathan N. C. Hill.

Other types of research projects that support the objectives of SSI and ERAP will also will be considered for funding under this program. For instance, ERAP has been used to support research for major journal articles on topics of interest to Army and DoD leaders.

The window for ERAP proposals is only open for a designated time during the summer months. Research topics linked to the U.S. Army War College Key Strategic Issues List (KSIL) are preferred. Scholars may submit gratis proposals to SSI at any time (see bottom of this page, "Unsolicited Submissions"), and are strongly encouraged to consult the KSIL, published annually in July or August, before submitting a proposal.