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NIH Phase 1 Exploratory/Developmental Cooperative Agreement (UG3)

HEAL Initiative: Non-addictive Analgesic Therapeutics Development [Small Molecules and Biologics] to Treat Pain

Funds optimizing an existing non-addictive pain drug or biologic candidate through IND filing and into a first human trial.

OpenNational Institutes of HealthUnited States

Pain treatment has leaned on addictive drugs for a long time because the safer alternatives keep stalling before they reach people. This notice funds pushing a specific kind of candidate past that stall point.

It is part of the HEAL Initiative, and it only accepts applicants who already have a promising small molecule or biologic lead for pain — the notice asks for a strong biological rationale f…

Preclinical optimisation and IND-enabling development of an existing non-addictive small molecule or biologic candidate for pain, including pharmacodynamic and target-engagement biomarker development, IND submission and a first Phase I clinical trial, as a milestone-driven phased cooperative agreement.

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.20 Feb 2029
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.$11M

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Last verified: 25 Aug 2026Funder reference: RFA-NS-27-007Source: www.grants.gov