Development of Novel or Improved Infertility Technologies (R61/R33 Clinical Trial Optional)

The Development of Novel or Improved Infertility Technologies (R61/R33 Clinical Trial Optional) grant opportunity is being issued by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' National Institutes of Health (NIH). This funding initiative is designed to support and advance multidisciplinary research for the development or enhancement of technologies aimed at improving fertility outcomes, especially in the context of assisted reproductive technologies (ART). This grant opportunity seeks to encourage innovation in infertility solutions through the phased R61/R33 funding mechanism. The R61 phase is intended for early-stage feasibility research, while the R33 phase supports further development following successful completion of the R61 objectives. The scope of technology considered under this funding includes but is not limited to drugs, medical devices, consumer products, and clinical practices, with a strong emphasis on clinical utility and eventual development for patient care. Applicants eligible to apply include a wide range of entities such as state and county governments, public and private institutions of higher education, nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status, public housing authorities, federally and non-federally recognized tribal organizations, independent school districts, and both small and other for-profit organizations. There are no matching or cost-sharing requirements for this opportunity. Although applications are not yet being accepted, the estimated post date for this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is July 25, 2025. The anticipated application due date is November 25, 2025. Successful applicants are expected to receive awards around July 1, 2026, which will also mark the expected start date of funded projects. The total funding available for this opportunity is projected at $3,300,000, with approximately eleven awards to be granted. Specific amounts for individual awards have not been disclosed. To facilitate early planning and collaboration, this opportunity is currently posted as a forecast. Interested parties are encouraged to begin preparing by forming research partnerships and conceptualizing responsive projects. For additional details or inquiries, contact Travis Kent, PhD, at 301-435-2295 or via email at travis.kent@mail.nih.gov.