The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has issued a funding opportunity titled "Novel Tools and Devices for Animal Research Facilities and to Support Care of Animal Models (R41/R42 - Clinical Trial Not Allowed)." This funding announcement is aimed at small business concerns (SBCs) to encourage the development and application of innovative tools, devices, and equipment to enhance animal research facilities. The program is designed under the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) mechanism, supporting both Phase I (initial development) and Phase II (further advancement) projects. The overarching goal is to improve the health, welfare, and management of animals used in biomedical and biobehavioral research by addressing key factors such as environmental control, animal monitoring, and facility operation efficiency.

The purpose of this FOA is to enhance research infrastructure by fostering the creation of novel technologies that improve animal welfare, streamline animal management, and monitor critical environmental variables that impact research outcomes. Specific priorities include the development of sensitive devices to measure environmental factors like humidity, vibrations, and ultrasonic noise, which are known to affect experimental reproducibility. In addition, tools that facilitate noninvasive monitoring of animal physiology and behavior, improve animal handling, and control pathogens and contaminants within research facilities are highly desired. These innovations should support a broad range of animal models commonly used in research, from small organisms like fruit flies to larger species such as nonhuman primates.

Funding provided through this initiative will support small business projects that focus on developing novel equipment or improving existing tools used in animal research facilities. The maximum budget for Phase I awards is $259,613, while Phase II awards can receive up to $1,730,751, with the possibility to exceed these caps by up to 50% with proper justification. The duration of Phase I projects is limited to one year, and Phase II projects may last up to two years. This opportunity explicitly excludes clinical trials and disease-specific tools (e.g., glucose monitors or cancer imaging equipment).

Eligibility is limited to U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that meet the specific ownership and operation criteria outlined in the FOA. The small business must perform at least 40% of the research and development, with the partnering research institution contributing at least 30%. Additionally, businesses must meet regulatory benchmarks related to the transition from Phase I to Phase II projects, as well as commercialization requirements for Phase II awards.

Applications must follow the detailed instructions provided in the SF424 (R&R) Application Guide for SBIR/STTR programs. Submissions are accepted via multiple systems, including NIH ASSIST, Grants.gov, and eRA Commons, with standard deadlines applied throughout the year. Applicants should ensure that all necessary registrations (e.g., SAM, DUNS, SBA Company Registry) are completed well in advance of submission. The review process will focus on the significance, innovation, and feasibility of the proposed tools or devices, as well as the potential impact on animal research and welfare.

The FOA is set to expire on January 6, 2025. Applicants are encouraged to consult NIH scientific contacts for guidance and to thoroughly prepare their proposals in accordance with the specified requirements to maximize their chances of success.