Early-Stage Dissemination and Implementation Research in Communication Disorders (R21 Clinical Trial Optional)

The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is reissuing its funding opportunity titled “Early-Stage Dissemination and Implementation Research in Communication Disorders” (RFA-DC-26-001). This opportunity supports exploratory and developmental research grants (R21) and aims to accelerate the integration of evidence-based innovations (EBIs) into clinical practice and everyday life for individuals with deafness or communication disorders. The NIDCD’s mission spans key domains such as hearing, balance, smell, taste, voice, speech, and language, and this initiative emphasizes early-stage dissemination and implementation (D&I) science within these areas. The program responds to the critical need for more robust research into the initial phases of disseminating and implementing EBIs. Despite numerous advancements in communication-related health interventions, widespread adoption in real-world settings remains limited and slow. To bridge this gap, the D&I science field studies how to distribute knowledge effectively and integrate EBIs into practice through a structured understanding of barriers, facilitators, and strategic implementation approaches. Through this funding opportunity, NIDCD seeks to foster early groundwork that enables high-quality D&I-focused R01 projects in future stages of the research lifecycle. Applications must integrate a recognized D&I process model as a core framework. Acceptable models include Getting-to-Outcomes, Active Implementation Framework, EPIS, and others, though no specific model is mandated. Investigators are encouraged to select models aligned with their research goals and to consult with D&I experts. Proposals should also incorporate core D&I research elements such as contextual frameworks, implementation strategies, qualitative or mixed methods, community-engaged research practices, health disparities mitigation, and appropriate outcome measures (e.g., adoption, fidelity, reach, feasibility, cost). These elements should directly support the application’s aims and lay the foundation for scalable future studies. Responsive applications may or may not include clinical trials. Acceptable trial types include those that are low-risk and do not require FDA oversight or Basic Experimental Studies involving Humans (BESH). Studies that focus solely on efficacy without D&I components, or that fall outside the NIDCD’s mission, will be deemed non-responsive. Consultation with the NIDCD scientific contact before application submission is highly encouraged to ensure alignment with program requirements and avoid disqualification due to non-compliance. The program offers up to $275,000 in direct costs over a two-year period, with a maximum of $200,000 allowed in a single year. NIDCD plans to commit approximately $1 million annually for this initiative. Applications must be submitted through NIH’s standard electronic portals (NIH ASSIST, Grants.gov Workspace, or institutional system-to-system solutions) and must conform strictly to NIH application instructions. Late applications will not be accepted. Eligible applicants include U.S. and non-U.S. institutions such as higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profits, and various governmental entities. However, as of May 1, 2025, foreign subawards/subcontracts are no longer permitted, although foreign organizations or components may apply directly. The first application cycle opens May 18, 2026, with an initial deadline of June 18, 2026, and subsequent cycles in 2027. Scientific merit review is scheduled for November following each deadline, with earliest start dates in April of the following year. The funding opportunity expires on June 18, 2027. Given the biennial cycle and fixed deadlines, the opportunity is considered recurring. Questions should be directed to [email protected] for research queries or [email protected] for grants management. Full adherence to NIH's policies and application guidelines is required.

Incorporate a D&I process model aligned with research goals; consult NIH program staff early to avoid non-responsiveness; adhere strictly to NIH application formatting and instructions.