Synopsis

The NIH Director's Early Independence Award helps talented new researchers begin their own independent research program soon after finishing their doctoral degree or clinical training, without first doing postdoctoral training.The award accepts applications on any topic fitting the NIH mission. It is part of the NIH Common Fund's High-Risk, High-Reward Research program.
Response Date	Sep 10, 2026 12:00:00 AM EDT
Posting Date	Jun 26, 2026 12:00:00 AM EDT
Archive Date	Nov 10, 2026 12:00:00 AM EST
Award Ceiling	350,000
Award Floor	350,000
Cost Sharing	No

Eligibility

Eligible Applicants

For profit organizations other than small businesses, Independent school districts, Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education, Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education, Others (see text field entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility" for clarification), Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized), Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments), City or township governments, Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities, County governments, Public and State controlled institutions of higher education, Private institutions of higher education, State governments, Small businesses, Special district governments

Additional Info on Eligibility:

Refer to Section III. Eligibility Information in the NOFO for additional information on eligibility.Foreign Organizations/International Collaborations:Non-domestic (non-U.S.) Entities (Foreign Organizations) are not eligible to apply.Non-domestic (non-U.S.) components of U.S. Organizations are not eligible to apply.Foreign components, as defined in the NIH Grants Policy Statement, are allowed.

Additional Information

Agency Name	National Institutes of Health
Link to Additional Information:	N/a
Grantor Contact Information:	If you have difficulty accessing the full announcement electronically, please contact: GrantSolutions Help Desk Phone: 301-402-2541

CFDA Program(s)

• 93.310: Trans-NIH Research Support