About this grant
This notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) encourages innovative research to develop, characterize, improve or preserve research models and model related biological materials, and to develop or improve technologies, including new approach methodologies (NAMs), for studies relevant to human health and diseases. This NOFO also seeks projects aimed at improving the identification and control of factors that could confound or interfere with the use of research models in biomedical research. The proposed project must have broad applicability to multiple NIH Institutes or Centers (ICs) to align with the NIH-wide mission of the Office of Research Infrastructure Programs (ORIP). The proposed studies must include research model(s) or NAM(s) and must explore multiple body systems or multiple categories of diseases affecting multiple body systems. Applications that develop models focused on a specific disease, a narrow area of research, or a single body system, or propose studies primarily relevant to a single NIH IC will be considered not acceptable to this NOFO.
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: Office of Research Infrastructure Programs (ORIP) · ORIPDCM@mail.nih.gov · 301-435-0744
What are the odds for a first-time applicant?
A realistic target for an established nonprofit. 14% of awards go to first-time applicants and nonprofits win 18%. Based on 521 new awards in FY2023–25. Organizations under $1M in revenue won 0% of the awards that went to nonprofits. The median award is $596,737. Expect about 317 days between posting and deadline.
Who can apply for Development of Models, New Approach Methodologies, and Biological Materials for Studying Human Health and Diseases (R21 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)?
Eligible applicants: State governments; Public & Indian housing authorities; Special district governments; City or township governments; Native American tribal organizations; Independent school districts; Public & state-controlled colleges; Nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status; Small businesses; Private colleges & universities; For-profit organizations; Others (see eligibility text); County governments; Federally recognized tribal governments; 501(c)(3) nonprofits. 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 Feb 16, 2028. Always confirm the time and time zone in the official announcement.
How much funding is available?
Individual awards: $190K – $500K. Expected number of awards: 15.
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