Global Brain and Nervous System Disorders Research Across the Lifespan - Exploratory Grants

The Global Brain and Nervous System Disorders Research Across the Lifespan Exploratory Grants program is administered by the National Institutes of Health through the Fogarty International Center, in collaboration with several NIH institutes including NINDS, NIMH, NIA, NIEHS, NICHD, NEI, NIDCD, and NCCIH. The initiative continues NIH’s long-standing mission of advancing neuro-health research and training by leveraging international collaboration. It specifically emphasizes research in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where unique scientific, clinical, and environmental contexts exist that are not typically available in the United States. By linking investigators in the U.S. with partners in LMICs, NIH aims to accelerate discoveries that improve brain health globally and address related conditions that also affect populations in the U.S. The purpose of this program is to stimulate exploratory research across the spectrum of brain and nervous system disorders that occur throughout the lifespan. Eligible areas of investigation include neurological, neuromuscular, sensory, neuropsychiatric, neuroinfectious, cognitive, behavioral, and neurodevelopmental diseases. Applications are encouraged to incorporate basic, clinical, translational, and implementation science approaches, ensuring that research findings can move from laboratory to clinic and into broader health practice. Projects should be designed to build sustainable collaborations, strengthen research capacity in LMICs, and develop interventions that are cost-effective and scalable across diverse healthcare settings. Funding is provided through the discretionary grant mechanism, and the program aligns under the Assistance Listing 93.989 (International Research and Research Training). While specific funding ceilings and floors are not yet stated in this forecasted opportunity, support is intended to catalyze new lines of inquiry rather than fund large-scale clinical trials. Awards will emphasize collaboration and the pursuit of innovative research directions. No cost sharing or matching funds are required, reducing barriers for institutions to participate. Eligibility is broadly inclusive and allows for a wide range of U.S. and international entities. Eligible applicants include state, county, city, and township governments; independent school districts; public housing authorities; Native American tribal governments (both federally recognized and other organizations); nonprofits with or without IRS 501(c)(3) status; for-profit organizations including small businesses; and higher education institutions both public and private. Additional eligibility clarifies that non-U.S. institutions may apply if they are based in LMICs, provided that applications include at least one U.S. and one LMIC partner organization. Applications are expected to be submitted through Grants.gov once the official Notice of Funding Opportunity is posted. The estimated posting date is December 23, 2025, with an anticipated application due date of February 24, 2026. Awards are projected to be issued by August 15, 2026, with funded projects beginning as early as September 1, 2026. Because this is a recurring program, applicants should expect annual cycles. Applicants will need to carefully prepare their submissions in alignment with NIH standards, including required forms and assurances. Applicants seeking additional details or clarification may contact the listed program officer, UnJa Hayes, by phone at 301-827-7024 or email at unja.hayes@nih.gov. As this is currently a forecasted opportunity, details may be updated before the official NOFO is released. Potential applicants are advised to monitor the Grants.gov listing for updates and ensure that collaborative arrangements between U.S. and LMIC institutions are developed well in advance of the application deadline.

Collaboration between U.S. and LMIC institutions is mandatory; applicants should begin partnership-building early