Miniaturization and Automation of Tissue Chip Systems (MATChS) (U43/U44 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The Miniaturization and Automation of Tissue Chip Systems (MATChS) funding opportunity is led by the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the National Institutes of Health (NIH). NCATS has been instrumental in pioneering tissue chip technologies—small bioengineered systems that replicate organ function to serve as advanced models for drug testing, disease modeling, and precision medicine. With increasing focus on replacing traditional animal testing, these systems are seen as key tools in regulatory and scientific advancement. The MATChS initiative builds on prior research, especially from the “Tissue Chips in Space” program in collaboration with NASA, to further improve automation and miniaturization technologies that enable wider adoption of tissue chips in research and clinical settings. The MATChS initiative supports U.S.-based small businesses through the SBIR U43/U44 cooperative agreement mechanisms to develop user-friendly, automated, and portable microphysiological systems (MPS). Funded projects are expected to create self-contained systems that support 3D tissue constructs while automating critical functions such as perfusion, thermal regulation, biosensing, and data acquisition. The overarching aim is to improve reproducibility and reduce costs and technical complexity associated with current MPS technologies. Projects should also explore real-time readouts, remote sensing, telemetry, and integration of advanced software for control and data analysis. This opportunity funds Phase I (U43), Phase II (U44), and Fast-Track applications, with a focus on creating commercially viable systems. Phase I supports feasibility studies and component development, while Phase II targets system integration, validation, and prototype creation. Fast-Track applications are reviewed for milestone progress prior to transitioning to Phase II. Successful applications must define quantifiable metrics and milestones, and proposals must demonstrate the potential for scalability and broad utility in biomedical research and drug development. Only U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) are eligible. These entities must meet criteria related to ownership, control, and employment size. Applications from SBCs majority-owned by venture capital firms are accepted with required certifications. Foreign institutions are ineligible. Applicants must be registered in systems such as SAM, Grants.gov, and eRA Commons. Letters of intent were due January 22, 2024. Full applications were accepted beginning the same day, with upcoming deadlines on February 24, 2025, and February 23 and September 4, 2026. Evaluation focuses on scientific merit, potential for commercialization, innovation, feasibility, and impact on advancing the field of tissue chip technologies. Applications are peer-reviewed and undergo NIH Advisory Council review. Selected projects are expected to report milestones regularly and participate in semi-annual consortium meetings. NCATS staff work closely with awardees to guide progress, assess benchmarks, and facilitate collaborations. The opportunity was first posted on November 22, 2023, and remains open through its expiration date of November 17, 2025. Awards are expected to begin as early as December 2024. NIH anticipates making up to two Phase I awards and one Phase II award in FY 2024, committing up to $2.15 million. Applicants should carefully review the required forms and guidance, especially milestone planning and data sharing requirements, to ensure compliance.