The Sign Research Foundation promotes and supports multi-disciplinary sign education and research for the betterment of society.

SRF is a non-profit research & education foundation which issues grants to academics and experts to develop timely research on the social, economic and aesthetic benefits of on-premise signage and other visual communication elements. The Foundation empowers communities by supplying academic research on vibrant and effective sign strategies, systems, and codes. We facilitate dialogue with architects, urban planners, developers, code officials, business owners, and designers to create more navigable cities, thriving businesses, safer public spaces, and strong urban identities. SRF brings education to sign users and to those who interact with sign users, including advertising agencies, lenders, appraisers, attorneys, regulators, franchisers and small businesses.

The Sign Research Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization and all donations are tax-deductible.

The Foundation is governed by a board of trustees representing the diversity and professional depth within the large community of individuals that believe in the social and economic value of signage.

Community – We are an essential partner to people who regulate, use and specify sign systems. Our research has been referenced by urban planners, downtown BIDs, architects, designers, and city officials. We work closely with the International Sign Association to supply research on well-crafted sign codes that they present to city councils and through workshops in partnership with the American Planning Association.

Academia – SRF works closely with the Academic Advisory Council on Signage Research & Education (AACSRE), which consists of leading academics from twelve universities. These multi-disciplinary top researchers are committed to advancing the science, technology, art/advertising, and regulation of signage; specifically on-premise signage.

Knowledge – The Foundation’s extensive database of multidisciplinary, innovative research provides the most comprehensive collection of data and studies on the technology, regulation, and best practices of the sign industry.

Vision Statement
The Sign Research Foundation promotes intelligent and productive use of on-premise signage and storefronts that benefits every sector of the U.S. economy. The vision of SRF is to empower communities through access to science based research on every aspect of signage.