Cooperative Centers of Excellence in Hematology (CCEHs)

The Cooperative Centers of Excellence in Hematology program, managed by the National Institutes of Health within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, supports a national network of resources aimed at advancing nonmalignant hematology research. These centers, known as CCEHs, are designed to provide state-of-the-art resources and expertise to researchers in the field of blood and hematologic health. The program seeks to strengthen the quality and reach of scientific studies in this specialized area through centralized services and shared expertise. The renewal of the program builds upon an existing framework with the aim of improving transparency, accountability, shareability, and overall program excellence. The CCEHs provide access to specialized cores that offer technical and scientific resources, pilot and feasibility project funding, and enrichment opportunities for investigators. This support is intended to enhance research output, promote collaboration across the hematology community, and strengthen translational opportunities in nonmalignant hematology. Funding will be provided through cooperative agreements, allowing for close coordination between awardees and the NIH. The program emphasizes collaborative engagement among centers and with the broader research community. Each center is expected to serve as a hub of resources, ensuring equitable access to advanced tools, knowledge, and pilot project opportunities that can advance the science of hematology. The scope of funding is clearly defined to focus on research support, infrastructure development, and strategic collaboration rather than clinical service delivery. Eligibility for the program is broad, extending to state and local governments, tribal entities, educational institutions, nonprofit and for-profit organizations, and certain federal agencies. Additional eligible applicants include U.S. territories, regional organizations, community-based organizations, and non-U.S. institutions. This wide eligibility pool reflects NIH’s goal of encouraging diverse participation and ensuring that innovation in hematology research is advanced across a range of institutions and sectors. The forecasted timeline anticipates the funding opportunity announcement will post on April 1, 2026. Applications will be due by July 10, 2026, and awards are expected to be announced by January 30, 2027. The project period for funded centers will begin on the same date as the award announcement. The program is forecasted to distribute approximately $3,745,000 in total funding, with an estimated five awards expected. Ceiling and floor amounts for awards have not been specified in the forecast notice and will require confirmation upon publication of the full notice. Importantly, no cost-sharing or matching requirements are indicated, removing a common barrier for applicants. Applications must be submitted through the standard NIH application process, coordinated via Grants.gov. The program will follow NIH’s standard review and evaluation procedures, with peer review of scientific and technical merit and consideration of programmatic priorities. Interested applicants should monitor the posting date for access to application forms and additional requirements. For inquiries, the designated contact is Jennifer Norton, reachable at jenna.norton@nih.gov or by phone at 301-402-5496. This contact can provide clarification on program requirements as the formal announcement is issued.