Field Initiated Projects Program (Development) - 0204

The Field Initiated Projects Program (Development) is administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the Administration for Community Living (ACL). Within ACL, the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) oversees this program. The funding opportunity is categorized as discretionary and is designed to stimulate innovative development projects that benefit individuals with disabilities, particularly those with the greatest support needs. This forecasted grant opportunity reflects NIDILRR’s ongoing commitment to fostering independence, inclusion, employment, and community integration for people with disabilities. The program’s purpose is to advance development projects that use knowledge generated from research to create tools, processes, methods, prototypes, systems, or interventions aimed at improving the lives of people with disabilities. Unlike research-focused awards, development projects under this funding must focus on applying existing knowledge and evidence to practical solutions. These outcomes should contribute to the full inclusion of individuals with disabilities in society, supporting goals such as independent living, family and caregiver support, economic self-sufficiency, and employment opportunities. The scope of funding includes projects that develop materials, devices, techniques, intervention protocols, or other deliverables that are directly beneficial to people with disabilities. Grants will be structured as 36-month projects with three 12-month budget periods. NIDILRR expects to issue a total of 13 Field Initiated Projects awards across both research and development streams. However, for this specific forecasted development opportunity, approximately six awards are anticipated. The estimated total program funding is $1,500,000, with an award floor of $245,000 and an award ceiling of $250,000. Cost sharing or matching requirements are not imposed. Eligibility for this opportunity is broad and inclusive of a wide range of organizations and institutions. Eligible applicants include state governments, county governments, city and township governments, special district governments, Native American tribal governments (federally recognized), Native American tribal organizations (non-federally recognized), nonprofits with or without 501(c)(3) status (other than institutions of higher education), private and public institutions of higher education, for-profit organizations (including small businesses), and other public or private organizations. Faith-based and community organizations are also eligible if they meet the stated criteria. Foreign entities are explicitly excluded from eligibility. The anticipated timeline for this grant begins with an estimated posting date of October 10, 2025. The application due date is set for December 10, 2025, with awards expected to be announced on September 1, 2026. Projects funded under this opportunity will also commence on September 1, 2026. As of today’s date, the opportunity remains forecasted rather than open, meaning that the official application package has not yet been released. The opportunity will remain archived after September 30, 2026. Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov. No pre-application requirements such as letters of intent, concept papers, or preliminary proposals are noted in the forecast. Applicants should prepare to meet standard federal application requirements including registrations with Grants.gov and SAM.gov. Applications will be peer-reviewed, with awards determined based on ranking across both research and development applications. For further information, applicants are directed to contact the grant manager, Radha Holavanahalli, at 202-795-7321 or via email at radha.holavanahalli@acl.hhs.gov. Additional information and resources regarding ACL grants can be accessed at https://www.acl.gov/grants/applying-grants.