Engagement Award: Capacity Building

The Eugene Washington PCORI Engagement Award: Capacity Building is a funding opportunity administered by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI), a U.S.-based nonprofit that funds patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER). PCORI's mission centers on helping patients, caregivers, and healthcare decision-makers make more informed decisions by generating evidence that compares the benefits and harms of various healthcare options. The institute is widely recognized for its emphasis on meaningful engagement with patients and the broader healthcare community throughout the research process. PCORI funds research across a diverse range of health challenges, including but not limited to diabetes, cancer, mental health, rare diseases, maternal morbidity, and more. This funding opportunity, part of the Fall 2025 cycle, is designed to build the capacity and skills of patients, caregivers, and the broader healthcare community to engage effectively in patient-centered CER. Proposed projects should enable these groups to become active partners in all phases of the research process, from planning to dissemination. The total funding pool for the Engagement Award Program in fiscal year 2026 is up to $25 million, with individual project budgets capped at $300,000. Projects may span a maximum of two years. The grant explicitly does not fund clinical research studies, healthcare interventions, quality improvement programs, or the development of medical devices or clinical guidelines. Eligibility is limited to U.S.-based nonprofit and for-profit organizations with a valid Federal Employer Identification Number. Individuals may not apply. Foreign entities or nondomestic arms of U.S. organizations may apply only if their projects clearly demonstrate benefit to the U.S. healthcare system and include U.S. stakeholder engagement. Applicants must also demonstrate their ability to comply with PCORI’s standard agreement terms. The funding opportunity is available nationwide, and applicants are encouraged to propose projects that engage underserved or underrepresented patient populations. The application process consists of two stages: a required Letter of Intent (LOI) and, if invited, a full proposal. The LOI must be submitted by September 29, 2025, at 5 pm ET. Notification of LOI status will be sent within 60 days, and full proposals are due by January 12, 2026. The earliest project start date is July 1, 2026. Projects must align with PCORI’s Engagement Award Program priorities and demonstrate clear alignment with PCORI’s Foundational Expectations for Partnerships in Research. Evaluation criteria include program fit, project plan, organizational capabilities, engagement strategy, past performance, and budget. Funded projects must incorporate inclusive engagement strategies, provide letters of support from involved stakeholders, and describe plans for sustainability beyond the funding period. All partners, especially those from patient and caregiver communities, must be fairly compensated. A completed Evaluation Reporting Tool is required as part of the final deliverable. Applicants may access a range of resources, including PCORI’s Engagement Tool and Resource Repository and free online trainings. Inquiries can be directed to ea@pcori.org or by calling 202-370-9312. PCORI typically responds to questions within two business days, though response times may be longer close to deadlines. Additional resources and templates are available on PCORI’s Engagement Award: Capacity Building webpage. Prospective applicants may also schedule a virtual office hour session with PCORI staff to discuss project ideas and ensure alignment with the program’s scope and priorities.

Use existing engagement tools and resources where possible. Demonstrate clear benefit and impact for target communities. Ensure shared leadership and partner compensation are built into budget.