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Exploratory Clinical Trial Grants in Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

Funds short, exploratory clinical trials — from first-in-human through Phase II — for arthritis, musculoskeletal and skin disease treatments.

Between a promising idea and a full clinical program sits a short, exploratory trial that tells you whether the idea survives contact with a real patient. This notice funds that stage for NIAMS's diseases specifically.

The Exploratory Clinical Trials Grants Program supports research toward preventing or reducing symptoms and improving outcomes and function in patients with rheumatic, musculoskele

Short-term, interventional exploratory clinical trials — proof-of-concept, first-in-human, and Phase I or II studies of drugs, biologics, devices, behavioral interventions or physical therapy — for the prevention, diagnosis or treatment of rheumatic, musculoskeletal or skin conditions, including trials in rare diseases and biomarker predictive-value studies. A clinical trial is required.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Multiple per year
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.4 Mar 2027
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.26 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.

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Last verified: 25 Aug 2026Funder reference: PAR-27-109Source: www.grants.gov