The Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training (ARRT) Program - Disability Policy Research (FOA number: HHS-2025-ACL-NIDILRR-ARPO-0103) is designed to enhance the quality and capacity of disability and rehabilitation research by training researchers to conduct high-quality studies, particularly in disability policy. The program, offered by the Administration for Community Living (ACL) via the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR), targets researchers with advanced degrees such as a doctorate, JD, or MD. The ARRT initiative aims to improve policy research outcomes that directly impact health, employment, and community living for people with disabilities.

This funding opportunity supports institutions in providing advanced training to researchers with relevant qualifications to further develop their skills in disability policy research. The program emphasizes recruiting individuals with disabilities and others from underrepresented groups in scientific research. The ARRT grants aim to develop multidisciplinary research training programs that enhance researchers’ capacity to explore disability policy, with a particular focus on technology for access and function. Participants are expected to receive training in scientific methodology, participate in practical research, and develop skills that lead to independent research careers.

The estimated total funding available for this opportunity is $250,000 per budget period, with a project period of up to 60 months. Only institutions of higher education are eligible to apply, including both public and private institutions. The funding will support various aspects of the training, including mentorship, practical experience, and opportunities for publication. A unique aspect of this funding is the inclusion of a one-year residential fellowship in Washington, DC, where trainees will conduct research within a Congressional office, a federal department, or a relevant non-governmental organization. This part of the fellowship is intended to deepen the fellows' experience in disability policy research, though fellows must secure their own placements.

A letter of intent to apply is requested by November 7, 2024, with completed applications due by December 2, 2024. There will be an informational conference call on October 28, 2024, for prospective applicants to learn more about the program and to ask questions. Applications must be submitted electronically via Grants.gov, and it is highly recommended that submissions be completed well before the deadline to allow for any technical issues that may arise.

Applications will be evaluated based on several criteria, including the design of the proposed training activities, the quality of the mentorship, the accessibility and adequacy of the resources, and the expected outcomes for participants. Special consideration will be given to proposals that effectively recruit individuals with disabilities and other marginalized groups. The review process will involve a panel of experts, and the final decision will be made by the ACL Administrator, who will consider both the panel's recommendations and the overall quality and potential impact of the project.

The anticipated start date for the awarded project is June 1, 2025, with funding administered for five consecutive 12-month budget periods. Successful applicants will receive an electronic Notice of Award, and grantees will be responsible for adhering to federal administrative and policy requirements, including compliance with non-discrimination laws and accessibility standards. Reporting on financial and performance aspects will be required to ensure that federal funds are used effectively and in compliance with the program’s objectives.