NHLBI Catalyze Program

NHLBI Catalyze — Reissue

Supports NHLBI translational pathways toward first-in-human feasibility testing.

NHLBI Catalyze is a translational research program designed to help basic science discoveries in heart, lung, blood, and sleep (HLBS) biology cross the threshold into viable diagnostic and therapeutic candidates cleared for first-in-human testing. The program provides R61/R33 phased awards: the R61 phase functions as a milestone-gated feasibility period, and the R33 phase funds execution after milestones are met. Beyond direct funding, the program delivers technical services, training, and mentorship to NHLBI-supported investigators. Scientific Program Director is Mike Pieck, Ph.D. (NHLBI_Catalyze@nih.gov).

The original 2022–2024 cohort was structured across five RFAs released January 24, 2022: RFA-HL-23-010 (enabling technologies and transformative platforms, R33), RFA-HL-23-011 (product definition for small molecules/biologics — target ID/validation, R61/R33), RFA-HL-23-012 (lead series identification, R33), RFA-HL-23-013 (device prototype design and diagnostic development, R61/R33), and RFA-HL-23-014 (device prototype testing and diagnostic assay development, R33). All five expired December 21, 2024. NHLBI's program landing page states the program is ongoing, but no FY2026 reissue FOA had been confirmed at the time of catalog fetch.

Eligibility for the original cohort was open to NHLBI-supported investigators at universities, research institutions, nonprofits, and for-profit entities — not limited to small businesses. Award amounts under the original cohort were not published on the program landing page and are null pending a confirmed FY2026 reissue. Applicants interested in this program should monitor the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts for new Catalyze RFA numbers under the HL prefix before preparing applications.