HEAL Initiative: Non-addictive Analgesic Therapeutics Development [Small Molecules and Biologics] to Treat Pain (UG3/UH3 Clinical Trial Optional)
National Institutes of Health
Award ceiling
—Award floor
—Posted
Jun 16, 2026Closes
Feb 20, 2029Location eligibility
No specific state restriction found in this listing — check the full opportunity for details.Categories: Health
Eligible applicants: Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments), Public and State controlled institutions of higher education, State governments, Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities, Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education, Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education, County governments, Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized), Small businesses, Independent school districts, For profit organizations other than small businesses, Others (see text field entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility" for clarification), City or township governments, Private institutions of higher education, Special district governments
Description
The purpose of this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is to support the preclinical optimization and development of safe, effective, and non-addictive small molecule and biologic therapeutics for the treatment of pain. The goal of the program is to accelerate the advancement of promising early-stage therapeutic candidates and facilitate their readiness for Phase II clinical trials. Applicants must have a promising small molecule or biologic lead candidate for optimization, a strong biological rationale for the proposed approach, and established assays to guide the optimization process. The scope of the program includes lead optimization, early-stage development activities, IND-enabling studies, development of pharmacodynamic and/or target engagement biomarkers, preparation and submission of an Investigational New Drug (IND) application, and Phase I clinical testing. This is a milestone-driven, phased cooperative agreement program that involves active participation by NIH program staff in project planning and ongoing monitoring of research progress.