NICHD INCLUDE Project — Down Syndrome Research
Funds Down syndrome research across life stages through a coordinated national initiative.
The INCLUDE (Investigation of Co-occurring conditions across the Lifespan to Understand Down syndromE) Project is a NIH-wide initiative led by NICHD. It funds research into the co-occurring conditions that affect people with Down syndrome throughout their lives, from birth to adulthood. Three active NOFO mechanisms are in scope: R01 Transformative Research Awards (RFA-OD-27-004), R21 Exploratory/Developmental (RFA-OD-27-003), and R61/R33 Clinical Trials Phased Awards (RFA-OD-27-005), all expiring 2028-06-16. The INCLUDE Project also includes a Down Syndrome Cohort Development Program funded at $20 million for a longitudinal study spanning birth to adulthood.
Each grant below is a distinct funding opportunity with its own eligibility, scope, and deliverables.
Funds transformative Down syndrome research through investigator-led grants focused on evidence-based development.
Supports early-stage exploratory Down syndrome studies through investigator grants advancing transformative research in the United States.
Funds phased clinical research programs for Down syndrome interventions through developmental and expansion awards.