The Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) has announced a funding opportunity titled Emerging Health Innovators (EHI) Initiative under solicitation number ARPA-H-SOL-25-118. The initiative aims to foster innovative health solutions by engaging both early-career researchers and community-based organizations in developing transformative health technologies and interventions. The program offers multiple awards under Other Transaction (OT) Agreements and Cooperative Agreements (CAs).

The EHI Initiative is divided into two tracks: Track 1: Technology-Driven Innovation, which supports early-career researchers in biomedical and health sciences, and Track 2: Community-Centered Innovation, which funds community-based organizations (CBOs) leveraging technology to improve health outcomes. Applicants must select one track and one topic within that track. Track 1 focuses on cutting-edge biomedical research, such as improving diagnostics for the lymphatic system and advanced machine learning for transplantation compatibility. Track 2 supports community-led solutions addressing issues like asthma management and environmental health monitoring.

The funding period is 24 months, with an optional third-year extension for top-performing projects. Individual awards are capped at $350,000 per year for up to two years, with a potential third year. The program encourages diverse teams, including collaborations between academic researchers, healthcare professionals, and CBOs. Proposals must align with ARPA-H’s mission to accelerate better health outcomes and demonstrate potential for broad impact.

The application process consists of two stages. First, applicants submit a two-page solution summary outlining their project’s goals, methods, and expected impact. Selected applicants then move to the pitch presentation phase, replacing a traditional full written proposal. This 60-minute virtual pitch allows applicants to present their project directly to ARPA-H evaluators. Solution summaries are due by February 5, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET, with pitch presentations tentatively scheduled between April 7–18, 2025. Performer selection is expected in May 2025, with awards beginning in June 2025.

Eligibility requirements vary by track. Track 1 applicants must be early-career investigators appointed within the past 10 years at a U.S. institution, while Track 2 applicants must be community-based organizations meeting specific nonprofit criteria. Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs) and non-U.S. entities are not eligible.

The evaluation criteria prioritize scientific and technical merit, potential contribution to public health, and cost realism. Successful proposals should demonstrate technical feasibility, impact potential, and alignment with ARPA-H’s mission. Applicants must register in SAM.gov and submit their proposals through the ARPA-H Solution Submission Portal. Further inquiries can be directed to EHI@ARPA-H.gov.