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NIH Phase 1 Exploratory/Developmental Cooperative Agreement (UG3)

Multi-Site Investigator-Initiated Clinical Trials

Funds an investigator-led, multi-site clinical trial in two phases — up to two years to start up, five more to run it.

An investigator with a multi-site trial ready to design rarely has trouble explaining the science. Getting the trial actually running — sites signed, data systems built, coordination in place — is the part that usually has nowhere to be funded on its own. This notice funds both halves as one award.

In scope are investigator-initiated multi-site clinical trials: efficacy, effectiveness, pragmatic

Investigator-initiated multi-site clinical trials — efficacy, effectiveness, pragmatic or implementation research — including large or complex trials run at a single site or without physical clinical sites (decentralised or virtual), relevant to the research mission of one or more NIH institutes. Funded as a bi-phasic UG3 (up to 2 years, start-up) then UH3 (up to 5 years, enrollment and implementation) cooperative agreement, up to 7 years total. 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.16 Feb 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.Cooperative agreement
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-27-125Source: www.grants.gov