Blueprint Neurotherapeutics Network (BPN)
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Funding amounts are not limited but typically up to $500,000 per year for Phase I and up to $1,500,000 per year for Phase II.
Project durations can be up to 2 years for Phase I and up to 3 years for Phase II.
To support small businesses in advancing small molecule drug discovery and development projects into clinical settings.
Encourages collaboration with NIH-funded consultants and CROs.
Small businesses engaged in drug discovery.
NIH and its participating institutes.
Patients with nervous system disorders.
Eligible organization types: Small businesses (SBCs) organized for profit.
Must be located in the United States and primarily operate within the U.S.
Must be more than 50% owned and controlled by U.S. citizens or permanent resident aliens.
Only U.S. entities are eligible to apply.
Non-domestic (non-U.S.) entities and foreign components of U.S. organizations are not eligible.
Projects must focus on drug discovery and development for nervous system conditions.
Must enter at either the Discovery or Development stage.
Application budgets are not limited but should reflect actual needs.
Funding for BPN contractors and consultants will be paid directly by NIH.
Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization.
Key dates include application due dates, review cycles, and expected award dates.
Applicants may submit more than one application, provided each is scientifically distinct.
No simultaneous submission of identical applications under different funding opportunities.
Follow SBIR/STTR application instructions in the How to Apply - Application Guide.
Include a letter of intent if desired.
Applications will be evaluated based on scientific and technical merit.
Review criteria include significance, investigator qualifications, innovation, and approach.
Applications will undergo peer review and receive a written critique.
Funding decisions will be based on scientific merit and program priorities.
Projects that demonstrate a clear path to clinical application will be prioritized.
Innovative approaches to drug development are encouraged.
Projects must retain IP rights and control patent negotiations.
Collaboration with NIH consultants is encouraged.
High attrition rates in drug development projects.
Need for rigorous data to support project feasibility.
Alignment with NIH's Blueprint for Neuroscience Research.
Access to NIH resources and expertise can enhance project success.
Strong collaboration with NIH and adherence to project milestones.
Failure to comply with application instructions.
Neglecting to establish clear project milestones.
Engage with NIH staff early in the application process.
Clearly define project goals and expected outcomes.
Highlight unique aspects of the proposed drug candidates.