The NIH Health Disparities Challenge aims to reduce health disparities for people with disabilities through community-led initiatives. In collaboration with the Administration for Community Living (ACL), the NIH seeks to complement academic research by supporting projects that improve health equity for disabled populations. The challenge, which offers a total prize pool of $485,000, is designed for community organizations experienced in serving people with disabilities.

Key Phases and Prizes:
Phase 1: Community groups submit proposals to reduce health disparities by improving their programs or offerings. Up to 8 organizations will receive $25,000 each.
Phase 2: Participants will have 52 weeks to implement their plans, with additional technical assistance and mentoring from NIH and ACL. They can compete for interim awards of $7,500 each. At the end, up to 3 grand prize winners will receive $75,000 each.
Eligibility:
Must be a 501(c)(3) organization based in the U.S.
Must not be an institution of higher learning or a current NIH grant recipient.
Individuals participating on behalf of an organization must be 18 years or older.
Federal employees and their families are not eligible to participate.
In addition to cash awards, organizations will benefit from training and mentoring in proposal writing and implementing solutions aimed at improving health outcomes for disabled people. Phase 1 proposals are crucial for advancing to later stages where more substantial funding and technical support will be available.