Rehabilitation Engineering Research Centers (RERC) Program: RERC on AI-Driven Assistive and Rehabilitation Technologies

The Rehabilitation Engineering Research Centers (RERC) Program: RERC on AI-Driven Assistive and Rehabilitation Technologies is funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the Administration for Community Living. It is part of the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR), listed under assistance listing 93.433. The purpose of the RERC program is to improve the effectiveness of services authorized under the Rehabilitation Act by advancing engineering research and developing innovative technologies to address rehabilitation challenges and remove environmental barriers. This particular RERC will focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven assistive and rehabilitation technologies. The opportunity emphasizes the need for AI-based systems to enhance independence, participation, and quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Many existing assistive and rehabilitation technologies are limited by a lack of adaptability and personalization. Through the integration of AI and machine learning, these technologies can evolve into dynamic systems capable of continuous real-time learning, adaptation, and responsiveness to user needs and abilities. This program aims to transform static tools into intelligent solutions that improve functional outcomes and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The grant will provide funding for a project with a 60-month period of performance, divided into five 12-month budget periods. The estimated total program funding is $975,000, with awards expected to range between $970,000 and $975,000. Only one award is anticipated under this opportunity. Funding is intended for advanced engineering research, development, and evaluation activities directly related to AI-driven assistive and rehabilitation technologies. Eligibility is broad, covering a range of applicants including state governments, county governments, city or township governments, special district governments, Native American tribal governments (federally recognized), tribal organizations (other than federally recognized governments), public and private institutions of higher education, nonprofits with or without 501(c)(3) status, for-profit organizations (both small businesses and other for-profit entities), and other public or private organizations. Foreign entities are not eligible to apply. Faith-based and community organizations that meet the criteria may also apply. The estimated posting date for this opportunity is January 12, 2026. Applications will be due by March 12, 2026. Awards are expected to be announced on September 1, 2026, with projects beginning on the same date. The opportunity is currently in forecast status, with the official forecast release date recorded as September 5, 2025. There is no pre-application requirement such as a letter of intent or concept paper indicated in the forecast materials. Applicants are encouraged to review the application instructions on the Administration for Community Living’s grants page at https://www.acl.gov/grants/applying-grants. For direct inquiries, the listed program contact is Thomas Corfman, who may be reached at (202) 795-7328 or via email at Thomas.Corfman@acl.hhs.gov. This opportunity will close on September 30, 2026, when the forecast record is archived.