The National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD), part of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), is forecasting a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) titled "Addressing Determinants of Health Disparities Among Rural Populations." This grant initiative falls under the R01 funding mechanism and is classified as a discretionary grant opportunity. The purpose is to support etiologic and intervention studies aimed at addressing health disparities within rural communities, aligning with the broader mission of NIMHD to improve minority health and reduce health disparities.
The proposed funding opportunity focuses on exploring and implementing interventions that consider the life course continuum and target specific risk factors impacting health disparities in rural settings. The initiative encourages projects that engage community resources and infrastructures, such as churches, schools, and local businesses, to implement evidence-based strategies that can enhance quality of life and health outcomes. Eligible projects may also involve adapting technologies like virtual care and remote monitoring to improve healthcare access in underserved rural areas.
Other research areas of interest include studies that investigate resilience and protective factors affecting rural health, and those that integrate healthcare systems with community-based services. Implementation science studies that assess the reach, effectiveness, and sustainability of these interventions are also a core focus of this NOFO. The expected impact includes better health services and systems that cater to the unique needs of rural populations.
The estimated total program funding is $5 million, with approximately 10 awards anticipated. There are no cost-sharing or matching requirements for applicants. A broad range of entities are eligible, including state and county governments, tribal entities, small businesses, nonprofits, and both public and private higher education institutions. Independent school districts and for-profit organizations other than small businesses are also eligible to apply.
The official forecast was released on May 27, 2025, with the expected posting date for the full NOFO being September 25, 2025. Applications will be due by November 26, 2025. Awards are estimated to be made by April 1, 2026, which is also the anticipated project start date. As this is a forecasted opportunity, interested applicants should monitor Grants.gov and the NIH website for the official NOFO release to confirm final details and application procedures.
For more information, the designated contact for this funding opportunity is Dr. Priscah Mujuru, who can be reached at priscah.mujuru@nih.gov or by phone at 301-402-1366.
