The National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) invites applications for the R24 Resource-Related Research Projects grant, aiming to expand the research capacity of U.S. nurse researchers in firearm injury prevention. This initiative seeks to develop resources and provide support for high-impact studies addressing firearm injury prevention through a nursing science lens, emphasizing health equity and social determinants of health. The program includes plans to attract new nurse researchers, enhance their skills, and support pilot projects leading to further NIH funding. Applications must include a Plan for Enhancing Diverse Perspectives (PEDP) as part of their submission.

The program targets the urgent public health crisis posed by firearm injuries, which accounted for over 43,000 deaths and 115,000 nonfatal injuries in the U.S. in 2023. Disparities are stark, with Black males and rural populations experiencing disproportionately high rates of firearm-related harm. These issues require a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating nursing's holistic perspective to address the underlying social determinants of health. Applications should focus on creating resources that foster innovation and community engagement while addressing the needs of marginalized populations most affected by firearm violence.

Eligible applicants include U.S.-based higher education institutions, nonprofits, and small businesses. Proposals must include at least one nurse researcher and articulate plans to address the specific needs of the nurse researcher community. Non-domestic entities are ineligible, but foreign components of U.S. organizations may participate. Applications must specify their target population or topical focus and provide a robust program evaluation plan with measurable success metrics.

Examples of funded activities may include mentorship programs, development of new research tools, training workshops, and pilot projects to test innovative approaches. Proposals may also focus on topics like unintentional firearm injuries, intimate partner violence, and the mental health impacts of firearm-related trauma. Resources developed must be disseminated widely to benefit the broader nursing and public health communities.

Key submission dates include a Letter of Intent due on December 29, 2024, and full applications due by January 28, 2025. Awards will provide up to $500,000 annually for up to five years, with total funding of $2 million expected to support two to four projects. Applicants must adhere to NIH submission protocols, and non-compliant applications will not be reviewed. For additional guidance, applicants are encouraged to contact program officials listed in the announcement.

Review criteria will focus on the significance, innovation, and feasibility of the proposed activities, as well as the impact of the PEDP. Successful applications will demonstrate alignment with NINR’s mission to improve health outcomes through nursing science while addressing social determinants of health. Award decisions will be based on scientific merit, programmatic priorities, and budget considerations.