Technology Development Program
🏛 National Institutes of Health (HHS-NIH11)
✓ Free, no account · Source: Grants.gov · Last verified Sep 18, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for researchers and institutions developing biomedical technologies from proof-of-concept to prototype stage. Eligible applicants typically include academic institutions, research hospitals, nonprofits, and small businesses with capacity to conduct technology research. The program prioritizes innovation and technological advancement over biological hypothesis testing. Projects must focus on novel technology development without biomedical or clinical testing components.
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Key dates
- Sep 16, 2026 Applications open
- Feb 5, 2028 Application deadline in 504 days
- Dec 1, 2028 Award announced
- Dec 1, 2028 Project start
Program description
This Technology Development funding opportunity will support technology research projects from proof-of-concept through prototype development. The program will prioritize innovation over feasibility. To maximize impact on future biomedical research, projects must focus on technological advances and should not include tests of biological hypotheses or biomedical aims.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- SF-424 (R&R) Application Form
- Project Narrative
- Budget Narrative
- Biographical Sketches
- Current Research Support
- Facilities and Resources
Program contact
- 👤 NIGMS Technology Development
- 📧 NIGMS_techdev@nigms.nih.gov
- 📞 Please contact via e-mail.
Funding track record
Recent awards under CFDA 93.859 from the last 3 years — real organizations that won funding through this same program.
Top 10 Largest Recent Awards
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$77,061,081
-
$65,300,599
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$64,096,874
-
$62,932,780
-
$59,464,779
-
$57,271,194
-
$56,978,109
-
$56,938,161
-
$56,890,714
-
$56,074,483
Top States by Funding
- OK 6 awards $208.0M
- DE 5 awards $192.3M
- NY 6 awards $190.1M
- CA 6 awards $184.0M
- NE 5 awards $167.1M
Source: USAspending.gov — federal spending transparency. Data covers last 3 years.
Funding history
Annual funding for this program — Federal obligations (CFDA 93.859). How funding has trended year over year.
| 2024 | $3,085,929,426 | |
| 2025 | $3,092,472,727 | |
| 2026 est. | $3,093,422,000 |
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Academic institutions, research centers, nonprofits, and eligible small businesses can apply. Check NIH eligibility requirements for your organization type.
What types of projects are funded?
Projects moving technology from proof-of-concept to prototype stage. Biological hypothesis testing and clinical applications are not supported.
When is the deadline?
The fixed deadline is February 5, 2028. Plan to submit well before this date.
How competitive is this program?
NIH technology development programs are moderately to highly competitive. Strong innovation focus and clear development pathway strengthen applications.
What can I budget for?
Typical allowable costs include personnel, equipment, supplies, and contractual services. Budget narrative should justify all expenses.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Focus on technological innovation, not biological validation or clinical testing. State clearly what technology problem you're solving.
- Show a realistic path from proof-of-concept to working prototype. Include milestones and go/no-go decision points.
- Emphasize the future impact on biomedical research broadly, not a specific disease or application.
- Build a team with complementary expertise in technology development and relevant engineering disciplines.
- Address potential technical risks directly and explain your mitigation strategies.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Proposing projects focused on biological hypothesis testing instead of technology development. Not clearly distinguishing tool/technology innovation from biomedical application studies. Presenting unrealistic timelines or insufficient detail on technical feasibility.
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