The Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships is the first new NSF directorate in 30 years and "advances use-inspired and translational research in all fields of science and engineering, giving rise to new industries and engaging all Americans — regardless of background or location — in the pursuit of new, high-wage jobs in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)."

TIP accelerates breakthroughs in critical and emerging technologies — such as advanced manufacturing, advanced materials, advanced wireless, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, quantum information science, and semiconductors and microelectronics — to grow long-term U.S. competitiveness. TIP provides an infusion of co-funding to existing NSF programs, led by other directorates, focusing on use-inspired, solution-oriented research in key technology areas, such as the National Artificial Intelligence Research Institutes and Quantum Leap Challenge Institutes, allowing these to scale toward significantly more impactful levels and further harness the geography of innovation across the U.S.