The forecasted funding opportunity "Educational Funding Opportunity: Expanding Education on Skin Lightening Products (U01) Clinical Trials Not Allowed" is issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to support educational, outreach, and public awareness initiatives addressing the use and potential risks of skin-lightening products, such as those containing hydroquinone. The program, spearheaded by the FDA’s Office of Minority Health and Health Equity (OMHHE), seeks innovative and community-based strategies to inform the public about the safety and health implications of these products.

The primary goal of this opportunity is to strengthen the science base and enhance public health awareness around the risks associated with skin-lightening products. Applicants are encouraged to propose programs and activities that effectively engage communities, particularly those most affected by the use of these products. The initiative emphasizes collaboration with stakeholders and leveraging innovative approaches to address knowledge gaps and promote informed decision-making.

The funding instrument is a cooperative agreement, with a single anticipated award offering $250,000. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement. The opportunity is open to a broad array of applicants, including state and local governments, public and private higher education institutions, nonprofits with or without 501(c)(3) status, for-profit entities, Native American tribal governments and organizations, independent school districts, and special district governments.

Applications should outline specific educational and outreach strategies tailored to target populations, supported by a well-defined methodology for program implementation and evaluation. The FDA expects projects to deliver measurable outcomes that advance awareness and public understanding of the risks of skin-lightening products.

While the estimated application, award, and project start dates have not yet been announced, the forecasted date for this opportunity is August 14, 2024. Interested applicants are encouraged to monitor updates and prepare proposals in alignment with the FDA’s objectives.

For additional information, applicants can contact Terrin Brown at terrin.brown@fda.hhs.gov or call 240-402-7610. Further details will become available as the funding announcement progresses from forecast to open opportunity.