This year marks the 250th anniversary since the signing of the United States Declaration of Independence. Since then, the University of Edinburgh and the United States have been linked through academic collaboration, partnership and influence. Foundations of our partnership Since 1776, the exchange of ideas, people and influence between Edinburgh and the United States has shaped science, technology and culture in both nations. Our shared relationship is shaped by our connected history across three key pillars: Academic exchange Student mobility and shared teaching have always been central to the Edinburgh-USA relationship.We currently have 175 Edinburgh students on exchange in the US and over 2,500 US students in session here at Edinburgh. Research collaboration Through collaborative research projects, seed funding initiatives and federally funded programmes, Edinburgh and its US partners have worked together to tackle global challenges.Today, we have over 60 live US partnership agreements in place. Civic engagement Alumni networks, public lectures, policy dialogue and cultural partnerships show our continued commitment to global civic engagement.We have over 25,000 shared alumni throughout our history. In 1786 Thomas Jefferson, main author of the US Declaration of Independence, wrote to his future son-in-law, Thomas Mann Randolph, who was studying in Edinburgh:You are now in place where the best courses upon earth are within your reach and being delivered in your native language. Marking 250 years of collaboration To mark 250 years, we're looking back at our shared history and joining our peers to discuss our shared future. Our partnership through history University partnerships with the United States date back to the 1700s, but continues to strengthen through ongoing collaborations and partnerships. USA 250 anniversary events To mark the 250 year anniversary, a number of events are being held throughout 2026 across Edinburgh and the United States of America. US Embassy Grants Programme for the USA 250 anniversary The US Embassy in London is now accepting applications for their Grants Programme focusing on the USA 250 anniversary. Projects may range in length from one to five years and grants range from 25,000 to 250,000 US dollars.Proposals requesting support for a project in the United Kingdom must be submitted by 10 April to the US Embassy in London at:LondonGrants@state.gov USA 250 anniversary grants This article was published on 2026-03-30
