The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has released a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) under the Field Initiated Projects Program (Development) with opportunity number HHS-2025-ACL-NIDILRR-IFDV-0105. This opportunity is aimed at fostering the development of innovative products, methods, procedures, and technologies to improve the quality of life, independence, and participation of individuals with disabilities. The focus of this grant is on projects that utilize existing research to create products or interventions that support the integration of people with disabilities into society, their families, and the workforce, especially those with the highest support needs.

Applicants are expected to propose development projects that may involve creating materials, devices, systems, or other products that can enhance the economic and social self-sufficiency of individuals with disabilities. The projects should align with one or more of NIDILRR's major outcome domains: community living and participation, health and function, or employment. Applicants must clearly specify which domain their project addresses, although they can address multiple domains.

The program is inviting applications from a broad range of eligible entities, including public and private nonprofit agencies, for-profit organizations, institutions of higher education, and Indian tribes. A strong emphasis is placed on including people with disabilities from diverse racial and ethnic communities in the project development, ensuring that the products or interventions generated are relevant to all segments of the population.

The total funding available is $1,750,000, and NIDILRR expects to make approximately seven awards. Individual grants will range from $245,000 to $250,000 per year, for a project period of up to 36 months. Applicants must submit their letters of intent by November 12, 2024, and full applications by December 9, 2024. An informational conference call is scheduled for November 6, 2024, to assist applicants in preparing their submissions.

Applications will be evaluated based on their significance, design of development activities, the qualifications of the project staff, and the adequacy and accessibility of the resources. Successful applicants will be notified of their award by September 1, 2025.