New NIH funding opportunity for academic product development and entrepreneurship
NIH is excited to announce a new opportunity for five Research Evaluation and Commercialization Hubs (REACH) to join NIH’s nationwide proof-of-concept network and receive $1 million per year for four years.

Hubs will provide academic innovators with access to funding and product development experts to help them accelerate the translation of their scientific discoveries into products that improve health and save lives. Hubs contribute to local ecosystems by improving small business development, entrepreneurial culture, workforce diversity, and health disparities.

Applicants are encouraged to establish public-private partnerships and secure cost-matching to amplify the impact of the NIH award. While primary applicant organizations must have previously been a formal partner to a small business on a Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) award, applicants are expected to partner with stakeholders across their region. Minority-serving institutions and historically black colleges and universities are strongly encouraged to participate.

The prior cohorts of eight REACH Hubs, which include 51 universities and technical colleges from 12 states, have trained over 1,900 scientists, launched nearly 50 startups, and supported projects that have secured more than $200 million in follow-on funding to continue development toward patient access.

More information can be found in the funding opportunity announcement (RFA-OD-23-005) and on the NIH SEED website. Applications are due on Thursday, February 9, 2023, with projects expected to launch in December 2023.