Limited Competition: NIH Research Evaluation and Commercialization Hubs (REACH) (SB0 Clinical Trial Optional)

Background
The NIH Research Evaluation and Commercialization Hub (REACH) program aims to facilitate and accelerate the translation of academic biomedical discoveries into products that enhance patient care and public health. Funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), this program supports the creation of academic entrepreneurship Hubs that provide innovators with initial investments, resources for proof-of-concept work, and mentorship in product development and commercialization. The goal is to develop high-priority technologies aligned with NIH's mission.

Grant Details
The REACH program will fund qualifying institutions to create Hubs responsible for:

1) Establishing infrastructure for identifying promising technologies;

2) Providing funding for product definition studies such as feasibility studies, prototype development, and proof-of-concept studies;

3) Offering access to resources and expertise necessary for early-stage technology development, including scientific, regulatory, reimbursement, business, legal, and project management support;

4) Facilitating skills development and hands-on experience in entrepreneurship.

Each Hub is expected to select and fund at least five Technology Development Projects annually, which may include feasibility studies, validation, prototype development, and proof-of-concept studies. The maximum budget for a Hub is $1 million total costs per year over a maximum project period of four years.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include higher education institutions (public/state controlled or private), nonprofits (with or without 501(c)(3) status), and other research institutions that have participated in the NIH STTR program as formal partners. Preference will be given to applications from primary applicant organizations located in IDeA-eligible states. Foreign organizations are not eligible to apply.

Period of Performance
The maximum project period is four years.

Grant Value
The total funding available is estimated at $20 million to fund up to five awards at $5 million per year.

Place of Performance
Preference is given to IDeA-eligible states.