NIH Exploratory/Developmental Research Project Grant (Parent R21 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

NIH PA-25-304 supports exploratory biomedical, behavioral and clinical research at an early conceptual stage, including risky approaches, new methods and models. Clinical trials are not permitted. Projects must fit a participating NIH institute or center. The next new-application deadline is October 16, 2026 at 5 p.m. in the applicant organization’s local time; the next resubmission deadline is November 16. Direct costs are limited to USD 275,000 over two years and USD 200,000 in any one year. Apply through ASSIST, Grants.gov Workspace or an institutional system; organizational registrations and PI eRA Commons/ORCID records must be complete. Foreign subawards or subcontracts are prohibited under this notice, even though foreign organizations may apply.

Eligible domestic and foreign organizations include higher education institutions, nonprofits, businesses and the government/community entity categories listed in the notice. PIs must have the skills, resources and knowledge to perform the work and apply with an eligible organization.