The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, has announced a forecasted funding opportunity for the continuation of the National Consortium on Alcohol and Neurodevelopment in Adolescence (NCANDA). Established in 2012, NCANDA is designed to examine how alcohol consumption during adolescence disrupts normal brain development and affects mental health outcomes into adulthood. This initiative has tracked over 800 individuals aged between 12 to 32 years, employing an accelerated longitudinal design that encompasses pre-drinking stages through to the transition into mature adulthood.
This limited competition opportunity, formally titled "Limited Competition for the Continuation of the National Consortium on Alcohol and Neurodevelopment in Adolescence (NCANDA) Administrative Resource (U24 Clinical Trials Optional)," supports the extension of NCANDA’s research scope to follow participants up to the age of 37. This extended data collection is crucial for understanding the differing impacts of early versus late onset of drinking on adult behaviors and health outcomes. The intent is to gather evidence that supports the creation of effective prevention strategies and interventions aimed at mitigating the risks of alcohol use disorders and related chronic conditions.
The cooperative agreement (U24 activity code) associated with this opportunity includes a forecasted total funding amount of $350,000. The funding mechanism reflects a collaborative approach between the grantee and NIAAA, emphasizing the strategic continuation of the NCANDA program to maintain the integrity and scientific value of the longitudinal dataset. While the precise funding ceiling and floor are not disclosed, the structure implies focused investment in a single, comprehensive administrative resource.
Eligible applicants include a broad range of entities such as public and state-controlled institutions of higher education, private higher education institutions, nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status, small and for-profit businesses, tribal governments and organizations, independent school districts, and various government agencies at the city, county, and state levels. This wide eligibility base reflects the program's interdisciplinary and collaborative nature.
The estimated post date for this funding opportunity is September 1, 2025, with applications due by August 1, 2026. The expected project and award start date is July 1, 2027. No cost sharing or matching requirements are imposed, which may reduce the financial barrier for eligible applicants. Importantly, this announcement is a forecast meant to provide sufficient lead time for interested entities to build collaborations and prepare competitive applications.
For further details, potential applicants may contact Shailesh Kumar at the NIAAA via email at shailesh.kumar2@nih.gov or phone at 301-827-0722. Interested parties are encouraged to monitor Grants.gov for the formal Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) and subsequent updates.
