Forecast for NINDS Exploratory Grant Program in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Research (P20 - Clinical Trial Optional)

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, has announced a forecasted funding opportunity titled “NINDS Exploratory Grant Program in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Research.” This opportunity falls under the discretionary funding category and is intended to support emerging research in the field of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). The goal is to foster the development of new collaborative research teams that can tackle the emergent issues associated with ME/CFS. This funding opportunity will employ the P20 activity code, indicating a program supporting planning and development of new research initiatives. The initiative encourages investigators with relevant expertise to consider applying, with an emphasis on promoting collaborations among those experienced in post-infectious chronic illnesses and ME/CFS. Applications are not yet being accepted; this announcement is a forecast meant to provide ample time for applicants to build meaningful partnerships and develop robust proposals. The estimated post date for the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is October 1, 2025, with a projected application due date of February 25, 2026. Awards are expected to be announced by November 1, 2026, and projects may commence by February 1, 2027. The total anticipated funding for this program is $3,000,000, and NINDS expects to make approximately six awards. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement associated with this opportunity. The funding is provided through Assistance Listing 93.853, which supports extramural research in neurosciences and neurological disorders. Award ceilings and floors are not specified in the current forecast. Eligible applicants include a wide range of entities, such as small businesses, county governments, for-profit organizations (excluding small businesses), Native American tribal governments, independent school districts, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public housing authorities, private and public institutions of higher education, and state governments. Notably, non-U.S. components of U.S. organizations and foreign components as defined by the NIH Grant Policy Statement are also eligible. The program contact is Dr. Vicky Whittemore at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. She can be reached via email at vicky.whittemore@nih.gov or by phone at 240-274-6696 for additional information or inquiries regarding this upcoming opportunity.