The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), under the Department of Health and Human Services, has announced a forecasted funding opportunity aimed at enhancing public education regarding the use and potential risks of skin lightening products, particularly those containing hydroquinone. This initiative is driven by the FDA's Office of Minority Health and Health Equity (OMHHE), which works to improve health outcomes for minority communities by advancing health equity through research, outreach, and communication initiatives.
This cooperative agreement, offered through the U01 funding mechanism, seeks to expand OMHHE's engagement with partners and stakeholders in efforts to raise awareness and educate the public on the potential dangers associated with skin lightening products. These products have been linked to adverse health effects, especially among populations that may use them without a full understanding of the risks. The aim is to support innovative, community-based strategies that can effectively communicate these risks while reinforcing scientific and public health perspectives.
The funding opportunity specifically calls for proposals that detail novel outreach, education, or intervention models capable of advancing the science base and public health messaging concerning skin lightening products. While the funding does not support clinical trials, the cooperative agreement format suggests that recipients will work closely with FDA program staff throughout the project. Proposals must align with the FDA’s mission and demonstrate a clear understanding of the target communities’ needs and channels for effective communication.
This opportunity is open to a wide range of eligible entities including public and private higher education institutions, state and local governments, tribal organizations, small and large for-profit organizations, public housing authorities, and nonprofits regardless of their 501(c)(3) status. The anticipated award will be for a single recipient with a total ceiling and floor of $250,000, indicating a one-time grant intended to support a well-defined and potentially scalable project.
Though the forecasted opportunity does not yet list a definitive open or close date, it was last updated in November 2024 with an initial forecast posting in August 2024. Interested applicants are encouraged to monitor Grants.gov for the official Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) and final deadlines once released. Applications must be submitted electronically via Grants.gov in accordance with federal submission procedures.
For any inquiries, interested applicants may contact the grantor, Terrin Brown, via email at terrin.brown@fda.hhs.gov or by phone at 240-402-7610. As this is a forecasted opportunity, potential applicants should prepare in advance by outlining project concepts and forming necessary partnerships, ensuring readiness when the funding window officially opens.
