The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has released a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), PAR-23-237, titled "Enhancement and Management of Established Biomedical Data Repositories and Knowledgebases (U24 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)." This NOFO is designed to support the continued enhancement, operation, and management of established biomedical data repositories and knowledgebases that are widely used and have demonstrated scientific impact. These data resources play a vital role in enabling data discovery, integration, and reuse in accordance with the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) data principles. The funding opportunity focuses specifically on resources that are distinct, have already demonstrated utility in the biomedical research community, and are ready for further advancement and sustainability.

The primary objective of this NOFO is to fund the continued operation and strategic enhancement of existing data repositories and knowledgebases that serve critical functions in the biomedical research ecosystem. Data repositories are defined as those accepting data submissions, validating and archiving data, and distributing it according to FAIR principles. Knowledgebases focus on curating, annotating, and linking biomedical data and may include the development of data standards and ontologies. Applicants must propose distinct support for either a data repository or a knowledgebase, but not both within a single application. Applications that combine both functions or are for new resources will be deemed non-responsive.

Funding may be used to support the development and optimization of data management practices, community engagement, quality assurance, governance structures, and operations. Applications may propose up to five years of support, with no budget limit as long as it is justified by the needs of the project. Awards will be made via U24 cooperative agreements, which include substantial NIH programmatic involvement. The NOFO allows new, renewal, resubmission, and revision application types, and does not permit clinical trials.

Eligibility is broad and includes U.S. and non-U.S. institutions, local and state governments, tribal governments, academic institutions, nonprofits, for-profits (including small businesses), and other organizations such as public housing authorities and independent school districts. However, applications must align with the missions of one or more participating NIH Institutes or Centers. Applicants are encouraged to submit a Letter of Intent and consult with NIH prior to application to ensure alignment with program priorities.

The submission process requires compliance with NIH policies, including the SF424 (R&R) application guide. A Letter of Intent is strongly encouraged and should be submitted 60 days before the application due date. Required materials include a project management plan and documentation of quality, community engagement, governance, and sustainability efforts. Applications must include a self-assessment and follow best practices for repository operations, data sharing, and software development. The NIH expects applicants to participate in annual program meetings and report regularly on progress.

Applications will be evaluated based on their significance, innovation, approach, investigator qualifications, and environment. Additional considerations include compliance with human subjects protections, inclusion policies, and data sharing principles. Funding decisions will be based on scientific merit, alignment with program priorities, and availability of funds. NIH anticipates multiple awards, including at least two supported annually by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).