Selective Precision Targeting (SPoT)

The Selective Precision Targeting (SPoT) initiative is a forecasted grant opportunity developed by the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), which is a part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). NCATS is dedicated to transforming the translational science process so that new treatments and cures for disease can be delivered to patients more efficiently. This specific initiative aligns with their mission by addressing the challenges associated with targeted therapeutic delivery to hard-to-reach areas in the human body. The SPoT program is set to explore innovative methods for drug delivery, including the use of microphysiological systems (MPS), engineered nanoparticles, extracellular vesicles, and focused ultrasound. The primary objective of the SPoT initiative is to develop a precise and efficient mechanism for delivering therapeutic agents to specific anatomical sites that are traditionally difficult to access, such as the blood-brain barrier, central nervous system, placenta, retina, and tumor tissues. These targeted drug delivery technologies aim to enhance therapeutic effectiveness while minimizing off-target effects. The initiative emphasizes a structured approach, including optimizing targeting accuracy, assessing biodistribution and off-target outcomes through multi-organ MPS, validating functional cargo activity, and determining the most effective route of administration. The SPoT initiative will be implemented as a cooperative agreement, which indicates substantial involvement by NIH staff in project activities. The total anticipated program funding is approximately $1,500,000, and five awards are expected to be granted under this opportunity. Although specific figures for award ceiling and floor amounts are not provided, applicants can anticipate that the budget will support research-intensive efforts in line with the initiative's goals. Eligibility for this funding opportunity is broad, including state governments, county governments, city or township governments, Native American tribal governments (both federally recognized and otherwise), independent school districts, public and state-controlled institutions of higher education, private institutions of higher education, nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status, public housing authorities, small businesses, and other for-profit organizations. This inclusive eligibility scope is intended to maximize participation from various sectors with relevant research and technical expertise in therapeutic delivery systems. The forecasted opportunity outlines a detailed timeline for the application process. The estimated post date is December 15, 2025, with an application deadline set for February 17, 2026. Awards are expected to be made by December 17, 2026, with projects commencing by January 18, 2027. These timelines provide ample planning space for prospective applicants to develop robust proposals and establish collaborative partnerships. While the application questions and required documentation are not yet specified in the forecast, early preparation is encouraged. Inquiries related to this opportunity should be directed to Dr. Passley Hargrove-Grimes at the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences. He can be reached via email at passley.hargrove@nih.gov or by phone at 240-485-4149. This contact will be essential for applicants seeking clarification or further information as the grant opportunity progresses from the forecasting stage to active solicitation. Overall, the SPoT initiative represents a strategic investment in advancing targeted therapeutics for complex health conditions.