Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems National Data and Statistical Center

The Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems National Data and Statistical Center is a forecasted grant opportunity issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the Administration for Community Living (ACL), specifically the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR). This program is part of the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Project (DRRP) grant series, which is designed to improve the effectiveness of services authorized under the Rehabilitation Act by generating knowledge and developing methods, procedures, and rehabilitation technologies. The emphasis is on advancing independent living and employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities, particularly those requiring the greatest levels of support. The purpose of this grant is to establish and maintain a National Data and Statistical Center for the Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Model Systems. The Center will support medical rehabilitation research by overseeing the national longitudinal database that contains data from each of the TBI Model Systems Centers. It is responsible for ensuring the collection of high-quality data, monitoring accuracy, and providing training in data collection practices to participating centers. In addition, the Center will provide methodological consultation and facilitate collaborative tasks to advance scientific efforts in longitudinal assessment of individuals with traumatic brain injuries. The funding scope for this program is defined within the field of science and technology, with a focus on rehabilitation research and data collection for individuals with TBI. The project will last for a 60-month period, divided into five 12-month budget periods. The expected total program funding is $800,000, with an award floor of $795,000 and a ceiling of $800,000. One award is anticipated. Funding is intended to ensure robust data management, methodological support, and infrastructure for advancing long-term research outcomes related to TBI rehabilitation. Eligibility for this grant is broad and includes a variety of entities such as states, local governments, public or private institutions of higher education, nonprofits (both with and without 501(c)(3) status), for-profit organizations, small businesses, tribal governments, and tribal organizations. Foreign entities are not eligible to apply. Faith-based and community organizations that meet eligibility requirements are also able to compete for this award. This structure ensures that a wide range of organizations with relevant expertise may contribute to national data management and research efforts. The timeline for this forecasted opportunity is well-defined. The estimated posting date is February 18, 2026, with applications due by April 20, 2026. The award date and project start date are both projected for September 1, 2026. The opportunity is currently in forecast status, meaning it is announced in advance to allow organizations to prepare for submission. The archive date is September 30, 2026, which provides a timeframe for final administrative closure. The program is not a rolling submission and operates within fixed deadlines. Applicants seeking more details or assistance are directed to the ACL grants page at https://www.acl.gov/grants/applying-grants. The grantor contact for this program is Radha Holavanahalli, who can be reached by phone at 202-795-7321 or by email at Radha.Holavanahalli@acl.hhs.gov. Interested applicants should review the ACL site for application guidance and remain attentive to updates leading up to the official posting date. The program reflects the federal government’s commitment to strengthening rehabilitation research infrastructure and improving outcomes for individuals with traumatic brain injury.