About this grant
The NEI New Innovator Award supports postdoctoral and other candidates in non-independent equivalent positions or newly independent Early Stage Investigators of exceptional creativity who propose novel, original and insightful research studies within the mission of NEI. Applications responding to this NOFO should have the potential to produce a major impact in vision research, test scientific paradigms, or advance key concepts on broad, important problems in biomedical research of priority to NEI. Applications proposing unexpected convergence of disciplines, new scientific directions, or the use of novel methodologies are encouraged.
Who can apply
Other Eligible ApplicantsIndian/Native American Tribal Governments (Other than Federally Recognized);Eligible Agencies of the Federal Government;U.S. Territory or Possession;Faith-based or Community-based Organizations;Regional Organizations;Non-domestic (non-U.S.) Entities (Foreign Institutions).
What it funds
How to apply
Read the full announcement on Grants.gov before you start. Federal applications are submitted through Grants.gov (or the agency's own system) and require a Unique Entity ID from SAM.gov. Registration can take several weeks, so start early. Contact: Ed Clayton, Ph.D. · Ed.clayton@nih.gov · 240-987-8255
What are the odds for a first-time applicant?
Rarely funds nonprofits directly. 86% of awards go to universities and other applicants, so look for a subrecipient or partner role instead. Based on 1,014 new awards in FY2023–25. Organizations under $1M in revenue won 0% of the awards that went to nonprofits. The median award is $492,821. Expect about 341 days between posting and deadline.
Who can apply for NEI New Innovator Award (DP2 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)?
Eligible applicants: Others (see eligibility text); Private colleges & universities; Public & state-controlled colleges. Other Eligible ApplicantsIndian/Native American Tribal Governments (Other than Federally Recognized);Eligible Agencies of the Federal Government;U.S. Territory or Possession;Faith-based or Community-based Organizations;Regional Organizations;Non-domestic (non-U.S.) Entities (Foreign Institutions).
When is the deadline?
Applications are due May 25, 2026 (this deadline has passed). Always confirm the time and time zone in the official announcement.
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