The Autism Secondary Data Analysis Research (Autism SDAR) Program is a funding opportunity offered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) through the Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB). This initiative is designed to support research projects that analyze existing national databases or administrative records to improve health outcomes and the accessibility of healthcare services for children and adolescents with autism and other developmental disabilities (DD). The program aims to generate new evidence, address healthcare disparities, and support research that contributes to better care delivery across underserved populations.

The Autism SDAR program focuses on utilizing pre-existing datasets rather than collecting new data. The purpose is to answer critical research questions that can help shape public health policies and interventions. The studies funded through this program should align with strategic objectives such as those set by the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee’s Strategic Plan, MCHB’s strategic plan, and the Blueprint for Change. Research projects are expected to have a measurable impact on underserved populations by enhancing access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment of autism across the lifespan.

The program is expected to fund up to eight 2-year grants, with a maximum annual award amount of $60,000 per grant. The total available funding for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 is $480,000. Successful applicants must complete a secondary data analysis research project, submit at least two manuscripts to peer-reviewed journals, and engage in meaningful mentorship between an early-stage investigator (ESI) and a senior investigator. HRSA emphasizes supporting ESIs from diverse backgrounds to help them establish successful research careers.

Eligible applicants for the Autism SDAR program include any public or private entity, such as research centers or networks. This includes institutions of higher education, non-profit entities, state and local governments, independent school districts, tribal governments, and for-profit organizations. However, foreign entities and individuals are not eligible to apply. A crucial requirement for all applicants is to propose an analysis of existing national data sets or administrative records. Projects involving the collection of new data or biological specimens will not be considered.

The application process requires detailed planning, including a project abstract, a research narrative, a budget narrative, and supporting attachments such as work plans and organizational charts. Applications will be evaluated based on the significance of the research, methodology, public health impact, performance reporting, and the capabilities of the research team. HRSA expects applications to present a clear, feasible timeline and measurable project objectives.

The application deadline is February 25, 2025, with an expected award date of June 1, 2025, and a project start date of July 1, 2025. Successful applicants will be required to submit progress reports, financial reports, and performance evaluations annually, as well as a comprehensive final report detailing the research findings and their implications for public health policy.