The National Institutes of Health (NIH), a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is the nation’s medical research agency — making important discoveries that improve health and save lives.
This grant program focuses on supporting Small Business Concerns (SBCs) that intend to conduct early-stage clinical trials with a risk level that is greater than minimal, typically in Phase I or II. The aim is to evaluate interventions for screening, diagnosing, preventing, or treating vision disorders. The U44 Notice of Funding Opportunity by NEI places an emphasis on establishing appropriate performance oversight and safety monitoring for these trials. Prospective applicants are encouraged to engage with NEI program staff for guidance prior to submission, especially regarding trials involving human subjects.