Early-Stage Dissemination and Implementation Research in Communication Disorders (R21 Clinical Trial Optional)

The National Institutes of Health (NIH), through the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), has issued a forecast for a funding opportunity titled "Early-Stage Dissemination and Implementation Research in Communication Disorders" under the R21 mechanism. This funding opportunity aims to encourage early-stage research in the field of dissemination and implementation (D&I) science, specifically focusing on communication disorders within the mission areas of the NIDCD. These include hearing, balance, taste, smell, voice, speech, and language. The primary objective of this grant is to advance understanding of how evidence-based innovations (EBIs) can be better integrated into clinical practice and everyday settings. The grant emphasizes research on dissemination, which involves the strategic distribution of information and materials to relevant audiences, and implementation, which encompasses planned efforts to incorporate EBIs into routine practice. This initiative seeks to close the persistent gap between the development of health innovations and their practical adoption, a common challenge across healthcare and community settings. Applications for this grant will not be accepted until the official Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is re-issued, replacing a prior NOFO, RFA-DC-24-008. The NIH encourages researchers to begin forming collaborations and designing responsive projects in anticipation of the official release. Notably, both individual investigators with experience in D&I science and collaborative teams integrating D&I expertise with domain-specific knowledge in NIDCD mission areas are urged to consider applying. The estimated total program funding available for this opportunity is $1,000,000, with no specified ceiling or floor for individual awards. Matching funds are not required. This grant does not support clinical trials unless they are optional components of a larger D&I project. The application period is expected to open on August 8, 2025, with a submission deadline of October 10, 2025. Awards are anticipated to be announced by June 1, 2026, and project activities are expected to commence by July 1, 2026. Eligibility is broad, encompassing a wide range of applicants including federally recognized and other tribal governments and organizations, nonprofits, educational institutions, public housing authorities, small and large businesses, and state, county, and city governments. There are no restrictions regarding geographic scope, indicating a national level of eligibility. For further information, interested applicants are advised to contact Dr. Holly L. Storkel at the NIDCD. She can be reached via email at holly.storkel@nih.gov or by phone at 301-496-5061. Potential applicants should monitor Grants.gov for the full NOFO release and prepare accordingly.

Encourages early collaboration and integration of D&I expertise with domain-specific knowledge; begin planning before NOFO release.