Innovative Pilot Mental Health Services Research Not Involving Clinical Trials (R34 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Estimated funding amount: $225,000
Project duration: Up to 3 years
To encourage pilot research that informs and supports the delivery of high-quality mental health services.
Aligns with NIMH strategic priorities to strengthen public health impact.
Individuals with or at risk for developing mental illness.
Healthcare providers and systems.
Community organizations and stakeholders.
Eligible organization types include higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, local and state governments, and tribal governments.
Non-domestic entities (foreign organizations) are also eligible.
Open to U.S. and non-U.S. organizations.
Foreign components of U.S. organizations are allowed.
Research must focus on non-clinical trial pilot projects.
Projects should address NIMH strategic priorities and improve mental health service delivery.
Application budgets limited to $450,000 in direct costs over the project period.
No more than $225,000 in direct costs allowed in any one year.
Application deadline: January 7, 2028.
Earliest submission date: January 16, 2025.
Applicants may submit more than one application, provided each is scientifically distinct.
Duplicate or overlapping applications will not be accepted.
Follow instructions in the Research (R) Instructions in the How to Apply - Application Guide.
Include a letter of intent if desired, detailing project title, PD(s)/PI(s), and participating institutions.
Applications evaluated based on significance, innovation, rigor, feasibility, and expertise.
Applications will undergo scientific peer review and a second level of review by the national Advisory Council or Board.
Scientific and technical merit of the proposed project.
Relevance to program priorities.
Research must not involve clinical trials.
Focus on innovative service delivery models.
Ensuring compliance with application instructions is critical to avoid delays or rejection.
Encourages partnerships with public and private stakeholders.
Strong research-practice partnerships may enhance application competitiveness.
Alignment with NIMH strategic priorities.
Innovative approaches to mental health service delivery.
Submitting overlapping applications.
Non-compliance with application instructions.
Engage with community partners early in the application process.
Highlight unique methodologies and potential public health impact.