DoW Multiple Sclerosis Exploration-Hypothesis Development Award
Can you apply?
This grant is for researchers exploring novel approaches to multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment and prevention. Eligible applicants include academic institutions, research hospitals, and nonprofit research organizations with accredited research programs. Applicants must demonstrate institutional capacity for biomedical research and have access to appropriate laboratory facilities. The award supports early-stage, exploratory research ideas that may lead to future funding and clinical application.
Program description
Summary: The fiscal year 2026 (FY26) Multiple Sclerosis Research Program (MSRP) Exploration – Hypothesis Development Award (EHDA) supports the initial exploration of innovative, high-risk, high-gain, and potentially groundbreaking concepts in the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) research field. The studies supported by this award mechanism are expected to lay the groundwork for future avenues of scientific investigation. All applications must address at least one of the FY26 MSRP EHDA focus areas. The proposed research project should include a well-formulated, testable hypothesis based on strong scientific rationale and study design. The presentation of preliminary and/or published data is not required.
Distinctive Features: This funding mechanism includes two options: Established Investigator and New Investigator. The New Investigator option supports applicants early in their faculty appointments.
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- SF-424 (Federal application form)
- Project Narrative (research description and methodology)
- Budget and Budget Justification
- Current/Pending Support Disclosure
- Biosketch (NIH format or equivalent)
- Institutional support/resource letters
- IRB/IACUC approval or pre-approval documentation
Program contact
- 👤 JoAnn Martin Grantor
- 📧 help@eBRAP.org
- 📞 301-619-2594
Funding track record
Recent awards under CFDA 12.420 from the last 3 years — real organizations that won funding through this same program.
Top 10 Largest Recent Awards
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$2,265,729,366
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$800,631,761
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$74,531,880
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$67,205,571
-
$53,718,832
-
$34,191,124
-
$24,907,742
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$21,394,379
-
$19,100,256
-
$19,002,641
Top States by Funding
- MD 10 awards $3,150.1M
- NC 11 awards $132.3M
- FL 8 awards $99.8M
- CA 11 awards $99.3M
- MA 7 awards $75.2M
Source: USAspending.gov — federal spending transparency. Data covers last 3 years.
Funding history
Annual funding for this program — Federal obligations (CFDA 12.420). How funding has trended year over year.
| 2024 | $1,483,968,520 | |
| 2025 | $1,201,153,417 |
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Academic institutions, research hospitals, and nonprofit research organizations with established research programs are eligible. Your institution must have research infrastructure and IRB/IACUC oversight capabilities.
What research topics does this funding support?
The grant supports exploratory and hypothesis development research on multiple sclerosis. Early-stage, innovative ideas that challenge current MS understanding are preferred.
What is the typical funding range and project duration?
This is typically a one-year exploratory award. Specific amounts vary; check the NOFO for exact funding levels and requirements.
How competitive is this funding?
DoD medical research grants are highly competitive. Strong preliminary data, clear innovation, and institutional support strengthen applications significantly.
What happens after funding?
Successful projects may transition to larger, multi-year DoD research awards or other federal funding mechanisms based on results.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Start with a clear, testable hypothesis grounded in current MS literature. Avoid vague research goals.
- Highlight innovation: explain why your approach differs from existing research and why it matters.
- Secure strong institutional support early, including resource commitments and IRB/IACUC pre-approval.
- Use preliminary data strategically. Even modest pilot findings strengthen exploratory proposals significantly.
- Follow the NOFO format precisely. DoD is strict about page limits, font size, and submission guidelines.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Weak hypothesis development or unclear innovation angle. Insufficient preliminary data or poorly justified exploratory approach. Inadequate institutional commitments or missing required compliance documentation.
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