The funding opportunity titled "Technologies for Improving Minority Health and Eliminating Health Disparities (R41/R42 - Clinical Trial Optional)" is administered by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), specifically coordinated by the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD). Several other NIH institutes participate, including the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB), National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR), and the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS). This opportunity invites applications from eligible small business concerns in the United States to develop and commercialize technologies, products, or services designed to improve minority health and reduce health disparities.

The purpose of this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is to support early-stage technology development efforts by small businesses. The overarching goal is to create accessible, affordable, and culturally acceptable solutions that address the unique health challenges faced by populations experiencing health disparities. Applications must demonstrate relevance to minority health and propose a solution that is tailored to the cultural and contextual needs of the target populations. Emphasis is placed on the development of innovations that empower individuals and communities, enhance care delivery, and support health-promoting behaviors.

This opportunity funds projects through the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program, covering Phase I (feasibility), Phase II (development), and Fast-Track applications. Award amounts can reach up to $306,872 for Phase I and $2,045,816 for Phase II. Funding components include research topics ranging from disease self-management tools and culturally attuned interventions, to mobile health technologies and big data analytics. Each participating NIH institute has specified unique interests. For example, NIBIB focuses on broadly applicable bioengineering and imaging technologies, while NIDCR emphasizes dental and craniofacial health innovations.

Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based small business concerns that meet specific ownership and operational criteria. These include being organized for profit, located in the U.S., and having fewer than 500 employees. Joint ventures and small businesses with significant venture capital backing may also qualify under certain conditions. Foreign entities are not eligible, and projects without a clear focus on minority health or health disparities will not be reviewed.

Applicants must register with several federal systems prior to applying, including SAM, eRA Commons, and SBA Company Registry. Application submissions must conform to SBIR/STTR guidelines and are subject to strict review criteria. Required components include a Research Strategy that clearly outlines how the project addresses health disparities, incorporates community engagement, and is informed by relevant frameworks like the NIMHD Research Framework. Applications are evaluated on significance, innovation, investigator expertise, approach, and potential for commercialization.

The opportunity includes multiple due dates annually through December 2026, with application cycles in June and December of each year. Letters of intent are recommended 30 days before each due date. Applications are submitted via Grants.gov, NIH ASSIST, or institutional systems. No late applications will be accepted. Funding decisions are based on scientific merit, program priorities, and availability of funds, and applicants must be prepared to submit various disclosures regarding foreign affiliations during the award process.