BRAIN Initiative: Data Archives for the BRAIN Initiative

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), in collaboration with other Institutes and Centers (ICs) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), has announced a forecasted funding opportunity for the creation and enhancement of data archives to support the BRAIN Initiative. Officially titled “BRAIN Initiative: Data Archives for the BRAIN Initiative,” this opportunity seeks to advance mental health and neurotechnology research by establishing robust, accessible data repositories. These archives will store and curate complex datasets generated from BRAIN Initiative activities and will include integrated tools for data analysis, visualization, and standardized metadata. NIMH, a leading component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is focused on transforming the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses. Through the BRAIN Initiative, NIH aims to revolutionize our understanding of the human brain by accelerating the development and application of innovative technologies. This funding opportunity aligns with that mission by providing the infrastructure necessary to ensure that research data are usable, reusable, and available to the wider scientific community in an accessible and meaningful way. The data archives developed under this program must be web-accessible and must adhere to rigorous data-sharing practices. Applicants will be expected to collaborate with the broader research community to ensure that datasets are described using appropriate standards. Archives must be designed to support interoperability and future integration into a wider data ecosystem, thereby enabling data-driven discovery across disciplines. The program encourages the use of cutting-edge software tools and emphasizes sustainability and scalability of data storage and usage models. Eligible applicants for this opportunity include a wide range of organizations such as state, county, and city governments; public and private institutions of higher education; public housing authorities; Native American tribal organizations; nonprofits with or without 501(c)(3) status; for-profit organizations including small businesses; school districts; and other federally recognized entities. Faith-based and community-based organizations, regional entities, and U.S. territories or possessions are also eligible. This inclusive approach is designed to encourage widespread participation in building this critical infrastructure. Applications will be submitted using the NIH R24 activity code, which supports resource-related research projects. The forecasted estimated date for the notice of funding opportunity publication is February 1, 2027. The estimated application due date is June 1, 2027, with awards expected to be made by April 1, 2028. The performance start date is also expected to be April 1, 2028. At this stage, no specific cost-sharing or matching is required. Award amounts and total program funding have not been disclosed as of the forecast date. Although applications are not currently being solicited, this forecasted opportunity gives potential applicants ample lead time to develop partnerships and collaborative proposals. Interested organizations should direct inquiries to the Division of Data Science and Technology via the provided email contact. This proactive communication window is designed to encourage thoughtful preparation and strategic planning for submissions once the NOFO is officially posted.