The Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects (DRRP) Program: Research on Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) As a Lifelong Condition is funded by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) under the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The funding opportunity aims to improve long-term health outcomes for individuals with TBI by supporting research on chronic condition management. The initiative acknowledges the growing evidence that TBI should be treated as a lifelong condition, requiring continuous medical attention, services, and support.

This grant focuses on the development and evaluation of interventions, services, and supports that address the complex health care needs of individuals with TBI. The research must include at least one study at the intervention efficacy stage and may also involve studies at the intervention-development stage. The primary output is new knowledge about effective chronic care management strategies for individuals with TBI. The long-term goal is to reduce mortality rates and improve overall health, function, and quality of life through rehabilitation services and community-based support.

The total funding available for this opportunity is $600,000, with a single expected award. The award ceiling per budget period is $600,000, and the award floor is $595,000. The project duration is five years, divided into five 12-month budget periods. The grant does not require cost-sharing or matching, though voluntary commitments of non-federal resources are allowed.

Eligible applicants include states, public or private agencies, public or private organizations (including for-profit entities), institutions of higher education, and Indian tribes and tribal organizations. To be considered, applicants must demonstrate how their research will include diverse populations, particularly racial and ethnic minorities, and engage individuals with TBI in all research and knowledge translation activities.

Applicants are required to submit a letter of intent by February 21, 2025, and full applications must be submitted by April 8, 2025 via Grants.gov. An informational conference call will be held on February 12, 2025, to provide guidance to potential applicants. The anticipated award announcement date is September 1, 2025.

Applications must include a project narrative, work plan, budget justification, data management plan, and letters of commitment from key partners. Proposals will be evaluated based on research design, project staff qualifications, dissemination strategies, and responsiveness to the priority area. The project must comply with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, ensuring accessibility in all materials and digital products.

For inquiries, applicants can contact Cate Miller (Cate.Miller@acl.hhs.gov, (202) 795-7754) for programmatic questions and Carla Kirksey (202-795-7303) for grants management assistance.