Innovation Grants to Nurture Initial Translational Efforts (IGNITE): Assay Development and Neurotherapeutic Agent Identification (R61/R33 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

Does this fit your business?

This is an NIH research grant for labs and companies developing assays and screening potential drug candidates for neurological or neuromuscular disorders, with the goal of reaching the Blueprint Neurotherapeutics Network. It is for early-stage translational drug-discovery research, not for businesses outside that niche; clinical trials are not allowed. Retail, construction, finance, and other unrelated businesses should not bother applying.

Best for

Biotech and life-science small businesses developing assays or screening drug candidates for neurological or neuromuscal, University and nonprofit labs doing early-stage translational neuroscience research, For-profit R&D firms working toward the Blueprint Neurotherapeutics Network

Not for

Clinical-stage projects that need to run human trials, Businesses outside drug discovery or neurology R&D, Organizations seeking general operating or commercialization funding

These are our matcher’s estimates for a typical business in each industry. A real match depends on your size, your state and what you need the money for — check your own fit.

What this funds

Money can be used for

Research, R&D

Who can apply

Small businesses, For-profit companies, Nonprofits, State and local governments, Tribal governments and organizations, Colleges and universities, Other applicants (see eligibility)

Award range

Up to $750,000

Questions about this grant

When is the application deadline?

October 20, 2027.

How much funding can an applicant receive?

The largest award is $750,000, and total program funding is also listed at $750,000.

Who can apply for this grant?

Universities (public and private), nonprofits with or without 501(c)(3) status, small businesses and other for-profit companies, state, county, city, township and special district governments, public housing authorities, federally recognized tribal governments and tribal organizations, independent school districts, and certain other organizations such as HBCUs, Hispanic-serving institutions, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian serving institutions, faith-based and community-based organizations, and foreign entities. Clinical trials are not allowed.

Can a sole proprietor or single-member LLC apply?

The facts do not say. Small businesses and for-profit organizations other than small businesses are eligible, but the notice does not address sole proprietors or single-member LLCs specifically.

Can a nonprofit apply?

Yes. Nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status and nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status (other than institutions of higher education) are both listed as eligible.

Summary

NIH R61/R33 grants to develop in vitro/ex vivo assays and screen potential therapeutic agents for neurological or neuromuscular disorders, advancing projects toward the Blueprint Neurotherapeutics Network. Open to universities, nonprofits, small and other for-profit businesses, state/local/tribal governments, and other eligible organizations; clinical trials not allowed.

About this grant

Who can apply

Topics and uses of funds

Program contact