HEAL NOFO for the HEAL INTERACT Data Center

The National Institutes of Health (NIH), specifically through the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), has issued a forecasted opportunity for a cooperative agreement titled "HEAL NOFO for the HEAL INTERACT Data Center" under opportunity number FOR-AR-26-001. This funding initiative is part of the broader Helping to End Addiction Long-term (HEAL) Initiative, aimed at advancing research that addresses the complexity of musculoskeletal and peripheral pain. This opportunity emphasizes the importance of integrated research approaches, recognizing shared biological and physiological functions and supporting the development of novel directions in pain research. This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is designated as a U24 Resource-Related Research Projects-Cooperative Agreement, signaling the expectation of substantial NIH involvement in project activities. It seeks to stimulate the creation of meaningful collaborations among investigators who specialize in understanding pain mechanisms, with the ultimate goal of addressing critical gaps in the field and enabling innovative discoveries. This announcement is not a call for applications at this time but serves to notify potential applicants and encourage preparatory collaboration. The grant falls under the discretionary funding category and pertains to health-related activities, specifically within the realm of arthritis, musculoskeletal, and skin diseases research. Although no specific funding ceiling or floor has been identified yet, the opportunity anticipates awarding a single cooperative agreement. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement for applicants. Eligible applicants for this opportunity include a diverse array of entities: public housing authorities, Indian housing authorities, state governments, federally recognized and other Native American tribal organizations, public and private institutions of higher education, nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status (excluding higher education institutions), small businesses, for-profit entities (excluding small businesses), county governments, and independent school districts. The anticipated timeline includes a forecasted date of May 13, 2025, an estimated post date of September 25, 2025, and an application due date of November 15, 2025. Award announcements are expected by August 3, 2026, with the project slated to begin on September 7, 2026. This forecast gives applicants sufficient time to establish research collaborations and begin planning responsive proposals. For further information, interested parties can contact Dr. Rebecca Lenzi at the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases via phone at 301-408-7447 or by email at rebecca.lenzi@nih.gov.