DoW Lupus, Transformative Vision Development Award
Can you apply?
This grant is for researchers and research institutions seeking funding for early-stage lupus research with transformative potential. Eligible applicants include universities, academic medical centers, nonprofit research organizations, and other entities that employ eligible researchers. Investigators at all career stages may apply, from postdoctoral fellows to established scientists. Research must focus on lupus biology, pathogenesis, treatment, or prevention and demonstrate innovation in approach or methodology.
Program description
Summary: This funding mechanism supports planning and development activities and pilot studies that will generate preliminary data and demonstrate feasibility for achieving the aims of a future interventional study. Successful studies may be submitted to a future Lupus Research Program (LRP) Transformative Vision Award (TVA), or equivalent, for funding consideration (See Funding Opportunity Number HT942526LRPTVA for additional information). Research must address at least one of the fiscal year 2026 (FY26) LRP Transformative Vision Development Award (TVDA) focus areas. This funding mechanism allows for phase 0/1 clinical trials, if appropriate. The mechanism does not allow for phase 2/3 clinical trials or animal studies.
Distinctive Features:
• Preliminary data are permitted but not required.
• Applications must include at least one lupus consumer advocate as a member of the research team.
• An individual may be named as Principal Investigator (PI) on only one application per LRP award mechanism (Idea Award, Impact Award, TVDA, TVA), for a maximum of four applications to the FY26 LRP.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- SF-424 (Federal Application for Grant Assistance)
- Project Narrative (research plan and methods)
- Budget and Budget Justification
- Biographical Sketches (NIH format or equivalent)
- Institutional Endorsement Letters
- Research Classification Form (Army requirement)
- References or Letters of Support
Program contact
- 👤 Abigail Strock Contract Specialist
- 📧 help@eBRAP.org
- 📞 3016192342
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
-
$2,265,729,366
-
$800,631,761
-
$74,531,880
-
$67,205,571
-
$53,718,832
-
$34,191,124
-
$24,907,742
-
$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?
Researchers employed by eligible institutions including universities, medical centers, and nonprofit research organizations. Postdocs, graduate students, and established investigators are all welcome.
What is the deadline?
Applications open May 5, 2026 and are due August 24, 2026. Plan your submission timeline well in advance.
What types of lupus research are supported?
The program funds early-stage, transformative research on lupus pathogenesis, immunology, treatment, and prevention. Innovative approaches with significant potential impact are prioritized.
How competitive is this award?
These grants are typically very competitive. Strong preliminary data, clear innovation, and institutional support significantly strengthen applications.
What is the typical funding level?
Army research awards vary widely. Check the funding opportunity announcement for specific budget limits and award types.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Emphasize transformative and innovative aspects of your research approach. Generic or incremental studies are less likely to succeed.
- Build relationships with your institution's research administration office early. They understand Army-specific requirements and compliance.
- Include strong preliminary data or proof-of-concept. Reviewers need evidence your idea is feasible.
- Address the scientific merit and potential impact clearly and separately. Both components matter equally in Army review.
- Allow 3-4 months for your institution's internal approvals. Army grants require extensive institutional compliance documentation.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Weak preliminary data or unclear feasibility will cause rejection. Focus on innovation but ground it in solid evidence. Applications lacking clear connection to lupus research priorities are unlikely to succeed.
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