The SFPE Foundation regularly funds research projects that meet our strategic priorities and provide value to the fire protection engineering community. These projects are low overhead and high impact, culminating in reports that are read by thousands of people all over the world. Our RFPs are developed with community input via groups like our GCI and WUI Working Groups. Projects are also guided by small external advisory panels made up of industry experts. 

There is so much research to be done. The more organizations who partner with us, the more we can do! Research partners are asked to make a $6,500 contribution to a project. In return, your partnership includes:

• +1 Advisory Panel Position (limited to 8 partners per project)
• Name of company representative on panel, listed in report findings
• Funding partner mentioned in report and all print/digital communications regarding the report
• Logo recognition in webinar dedicated to report findings
• Logo recognition in any report related presentations

To inquire about research funding partnership, please contact Amanda Tarbet, Sr. Program Manager.

Current Funding Partner Opportunities

Development of a BIM-Based Case File to Identify Fire Protection Data Exchange Needs Across the Building Lifecycle

The SFPE Foundation is seeking industry partners to support a new research project, Development of a BIM-Based Case File to Identify Fire Protection Data Exchange Needs Across the Building Lifecycle. This project aims to bridge the gap between fire protection engineering and the digitalized future of construction and building management.

While Building Information Modeling (BIM) is central to modern design and construction, fire protection data remains limited and inconsistent within these digital workflows. This project will establish the foundational framework for Digitalized Detection, Inspection, Operation, and Maintenance of the built environment. Read the full RFP.

This foundational project will address this gap by creating:

• A "Digital Sandbox": A BIM-based case file used to test and validate fire protection data in a controlled environment.
• Standardized Frameworks: Clear methods for capturing and exchanging data between designers, contractors, code officials, and facility managers.
• Open Access: A structured, reusable BIM framework built on non-proprietary standards.
• An Information Roadmap: A strategic guide addressing data ownership, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance.

Partners are invited to appoint a representative to the project's External Advisory Panel, providing direct input and guidance on the research as it progresses. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of fire engineering, align your organization with cutting-edge research, and help establish the data and methods needed to make our communities safer and more sustainable.

Contact Amanda Tarbet for more information. 

In-Depth Analysis of Fire Events

The SFPE Foundation invites you to partner with us on an innovative research initiative that will reshape our understanding of the true impact of fire events, ultimately creating a more resilient and sustainable built environment for the future.

We are seeking funding partners for our 2026 research project, In-Depth Analysis of Fire Events, the first phase of a multi-year effort born from our Grand Challenges Initiative.

Currently, the full impact of a fire is narrowly measured in casualties and direct property loss. This limited view hinders the integration of fire safety into broader sustainability discussions and globally recognized rating systems like LEED. To create truly resilient communities, we must expand our analysis to include the long-term environmental, social, and economic consequences of fire.

This foundational project will address this gap by:

• Developing a new methodology to study the total cost of fire events.
• Conducting in-depth case studies of at least three major fire events across different continents and building types (Residential, Municipal, and Hazardous Materials).
• Analyzing impacts from before the fire to 5-10 years post-event, capturing a comprehensive picture of the costs to building owners, communities, and the environment.

Partners are invited to appoint a representative to the project's External Advisory Panel, providing direct input and guidance on the research as it progresses. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of fire engineering, align your organization with cutting-edge research, and help establish the data and methods needed to make our communities safer and more sustainable.

Commitments requested by May 1, 2026. Contact Amanda Tarbet for more information.