The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI), under the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is offering a funding opportunity titled "SBIR Solutions to Enable Population Genomic Screening" (R43/R44 Clinical Trial Optional), Funding Opportunity Number PAR-24-263. This grant is intended to support U.S.-based small businesses in developing and commercializing innovative solutions that will enable population genomic screening for common, actionable genomic conditions, particularly in primary care settings. The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program encourages the development of products or services that facilitate genomic screening and reduce implementation barriers, such as cost, time, and access.

This SBIR grant will fund Phase I, Fast-Track, and Direct Phase II applications. Phase I aims to establish the technical merit and feasibility of the proposed solutions, while Phase II focuses on advancing the research and development efforts toward commercialization. Fast-Track allows applicants to submit and review both phases simultaneously. The budget is capped at $400,000 for Phase I and $2,150,000 for Phase II, with a project period of up to 6 months for Phase I and up to 2 years for Phase II.

Key dates for this funding opportunity include a submission opening date of November 1, 2024, with a letter of intent due by November 2, 2024, and applications due on December 2, 2024. The earliest start date for awarded projects is July 2025. Eligible applicants must be small U.S. business concerns, and at least 50% of the research must be conducted by the small business.

Solutions that will be considered for funding include technologies, services, or products that help manage genomic screening, provide education for primary care providers (PCPs), and support clinical decision-making in genomic screening.