Field Initiated Projects Program: Minority-Serving Institutions (MSI) - Development - 0206

The Field Initiated Projects Program: Minority-Serving Institutions (MSI) – Development is a forecasted discretionary grant opportunity offered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the Administration for Community Living and its National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR). This program falls under Assistance Listing 93.433 and is focused on advancing disability, independent living, and rehabilitation research. NIDILRR has long been dedicated to generating knowledge and promoting innovations that improve the lives of individuals with disabilities, particularly those with the greatest support needs. The purpose of the MSI Field Initiated Projects (FIP) program is twofold. First, it seeks to generate new knowledge through research or to develop practical tools, methods, products, or rehabilitation technologies that contribute to the full inclusion of individuals with disabilities in all aspects of community life. Second, it is designed to strengthen the capacity of minority-serving institutions to conduct high-quality disability and rehabilitation research and development. The program places special emphasis on development projects, which use knowledge gained from research to produce materials, devices, systems, techniques, or intervention protocols that are directly beneficial to individuals with disabilities and their support systems. Applicants selected under this opportunity will be expected to propose development projects aligned with NIDILRR’s mission of maximizing independence, employment, family support, and economic self-sufficiency among people with disabilities. Funding must be used to create innovative solutions that enhance participation and reduce barriers for people with disabilities, especially those with the highest support needs. The program encourages applicants to build sustainable research capacity at their institutions while focusing on advancing disability and rehabilitation outcomes. Eligibility for this opportunity is limited to specific minority-serving entities and Indian Tribes as defined by federal law. Eligible applicants include Historically Black Colleges or Universities, Hispanic-serving institutions, American Indian tribal colleges and universities, and other institutions of higher education with at least 50 percent minority student enrollment. Foreign institutions are not eligible. NIDILRR places particular interest on proposals from minority entities that have been historically underrepresented in the federal research arena. In addition to minority-serving institutions, both public and private institutions of higher education and federally recognized tribal governments may apply, provided they meet the eligibility definitions. This forecasted opportunity anticipates releasing the official funding announcement on January 15, 2026. Applications will be due by March 16, 2026, with an estimated award date of September 1, 2026. The project period will last 36 months, divided into three 12-month budget periods. The program expects to make one award under this announcement with an estimated award ceiling of $250,000 and an award floor of $245,000. The estimated total funding available is $250,000, and cost-sharing or matching requirements are not applicable. Applicants seeking further details should refer to the official funding announcement when published and are encouraged to review the ACL grants application portal for guidance. Direct inquiries may be directed to the program contact, Shelley Reeves, at (202) 795-7427 or via email at shelley.reeves@acl.hhs.gov. Additional information about the program and related grant opportunities is available at https://www.acl.gov/grants/applying-grants. This funding opportunity is set to expire on September 30, 2026, unless otherwise updated in subsequent versions.