The High-THC Cannabis Impact Research Study grant

The High-THC Cannabis Impact Research Study grant program is administered by the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health (DBH), Bureau of Behavioral Health Treatment. This program is funded through Ohio's legislative action under Amended Substitute House Bill 96, Section 751.90. Its purpose is to support investigational and research services that assess the impact of high-THC cannabis and hemp-derived products. The RFA, identified as RFA #90, invites qualified applicants to conduct a two-year study exploring both the health risks and benefits of cannabis use. Applications are due November 21, 2025, with an anticipated project start date of December 15, 2025. This opportunity seeks to fulfill the legislative requirement of House Bill 96, focusing on a comprehensive evaluation of cannabis and hemp-derived product use. The research will examine physical, behavioral, cognitive, and neurodevelopmental effects, with an emphasis on chronic or early use of high-potency THC cannabis, especially among individuals under the age of 25. Additional topics include cannabis-induced psychosis, cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, mental health impacts, cognitive impairments, and potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis use. The final objective is to provide scientifically grounded recommendations that inform future regulation, prevention, and public education efforts in Ohio. Eligible applicants include Ohio-based public universities, public safety agencies, and research consortia. Applicants must be nonprofit organizations (501(c)(3) or (4)) or government entities with demonstrated experience in complex research projects. A single awardee will be selected, with an expected grant amount of up to $300,000 per year over the two-year grant period. Applications must include detailed technical and financial components including qualifications, staffing plan, timeline, methodology, and a budget narrative. The anticipated total award over two years is up to $600,000. The grant requires submission of two formal research reports to DBH. The first is due by June 1, 2026, and the second, final report is due by June 1, 2027. Reports must include comparative analysis of state-level regulations, health outcomes, peer-reviewed research, and policy recommendations for Ohio stakeholders. These may include legislators, state agencies, employers, educators, and the general public. The application process is highly structured. Interested organizations must submit their complete electronic applications to the designated DBH email address by the stated deadline. Late or incomplete applications will not be reviewed. DBH will notify awardees the week of December 8, 2025, and work may begin as early as seven working days after encumbrance and issuance of the State of Ohio Notice of Sub-Award (NOSA). The entire grant period spans from December 15, 2025, to June 30, 2027. No extensions are available beyond the deadline for use of funds. Renewals or continued funding beyond this term are contingent on performance and available appropriations. All grant work must be approved by the assigned Agreement Manager at DBH and comply with all requirements outlined in the Ohio Revised Code.

Ensure all application components are submitted by the deadline. Strict adherence to format and page limits is required. Include signed budget narrative and sub-awardee documents.