DoW Vision, Investigator-Initiated Research Award
Description
Summary: The fiscal year 2026 (FY26) Vision Research Program (VRP) Investigator-Initiated Research Award (IIRA) supports basic through early translational research that will yield highly impactful discoveries or major advancements in the research and/or patient care of eye injury and/or visual dysfunction related to military exposure . The IIRA may be used to support preclinical studies and/or clinical research . Research must align with at least one of the FY26 VRP Focus Areas . The IIRA cannot be used to support clinical trials . Distinctive Features: · The IIRA offers two Funding Levels to support research at different stages and the exploration/development of ideas of different maturity levels. · Funding Level 2 includes a Partnering Principal Investigator (PI) Option (PPIO) for two PIs, an Initiating PI and a Partnering PI. · Scored peer review criteria include Research Idea/Rationale, Research Strategy and Feasibility, Impact, and Personnel. · Programmatic review criteria include adherence to the intent of the IIRA, contribution to the VRP portfolio, relative impact, and relevance to military health. · The VRP may share FY26 IIRA applications and reviews with the National Eye Institute (NEI) for independent funding consideration. https://cdmrp.health.mil/pubs/press/2026/vrppreann
Eligibility
See official grant page for eligibility requirements
Industry Tags
About This Grant
Summary: The fiscal year 2026 (FY26) Vision Research Program (VRP) Investigator-Initiated Research Award (IIRA) supports basic through early translational research that will yield highly impactful discoveries or major advancements in the research and/or patient care of eye injury and/or visual dysfunction related to military exposure . The IIRA may be used to support preclinical studies and/or clinical research . Research must align with at least one of the FY26 VRP Focus Areas . The IIRA cannot be used to support clinical trials . Distinctive Features: · The IIRA offers two Funding Levels to support research at different stages and the exploration/development of ideas of different maturity levels. · Funding Level 2 includes a Partnering Principal Investigator (PI) Option (PPIO) for two PIs, an Initiating PI and a Partnering PI. · Scored peer review criteria include Research Idea/Rationale, Research Strategy and Feasibility, Impact, and Personnel. · Programmatic review criteria include adherence to the intent of the IIRA, contribution to the VRP portfolio, relative impact, and relevance to military health. · The VRP may share FY26 IIRA applications and reviews with the National Eye Institute (NEI) for independent funding consideration. https://cdmrp.health.mil/pubs/press/2026/vrppreann
Funding Information
- Estimated Total Program Funding
- $4,400,000
- Expected Number of Awards
- 5
Eligibility Overview
This opportunity from Defense Health Agency Contracting Activity - DHACA is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Healthcare are especially encouraged to review the requirements.
Federal grant opportunities like this one are typically open to a range of applicant types. Common eligible organizations include:
- Nonprofits and 501(c)(3) organizations
- Small businesses and startups (especially for SBIR/STTR programs)
- State, local, and tribal governments
- Colleges, universities, and research institutions
- Individuals (for select programs in education, arts, and research)
Eligibility requirements vary by opportunity. Always review the official listing before investing time in an application.
How to Apply
- 1
Review the full opportunity
Read the complete Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for this Defense Health Agency Contracting Activity - DHACA program on its official page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/362184).
- 2
Confirm eligibility
Check that your organization meets every requirement set by Defense Health Agency Contracting Activity - DHACA — applicant type, location, registration status, and any prior-award restrictions.
- 3
Prepare required documents
Gather your budget narrative, needs statement, organizational details, SAM.gov registration, and any required certifications.
- 4
Submit before the deadline
This opportunity closes on November 12, 2026. Submit at least 48 hours early — portal systems are often slow near closing time.
Grant Writing Tips
Proposals for healthcare programs such as those from Defense Health Agency Contracting Activity - DHACA are competitive — these tips can strengthen your application:
- ✓Start your application at least 4 weeks before the deadline — rushed proposals score lower.
- ✓Tailor your needs statement to match the funder's stated priorities, using their exact language where possible.
- ✓Have a colleague outside your team review your budget narrative before submitting — fresh eyes catch errors reviewers penalize.
More Grants from Defense Health Agency Contracting Activity - DHACA
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for DoW Vision, Investigator-Initiated Research Award?
This opportunity from Defense Health Agency Contracting Activity - DHACA is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Healthcare are especially encouraged to review the requirements. Always confirm the full eligibility criteria on the official listing before applying.
How much funding does DoW Vision, Investigator-Initiated Research Award provide?
The total estimated program funding for DoW Vision, Investigator-Initiated Research Award is $4,400,000.
When is the deadline for DoW Vision, Investigator-Initiated Research Award?
The application deadline for DoW Vision, Investigator-Initiated Research Award is November 12, 2026. Submit at least 48 hours early to avoid last-minute portal issues.
How do I apply for DoW Vision, Investigator-Initiated Research Award?
Apply for DoW Vision, Investigator-Initiated Research Award through the official grant page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/362184). Confirm your eligibility and prepare your application materials before the deadline.
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