HEAL Initiative: Studies to Enable Analgesic Discovery (R61/R33 - Clinical Trial Not Allowed)
About
This funding opportunity is part of a suite of NOFOs within the NIH HEAL Initiative to support the development of safe, effective, and non-addictive therapeutics to treat pain. The goal is to encourage initial translational efforts that will support a drug discovery program and advance projects to the point where they meet the entry criteria for the Pain Therapeutics Development Program. The scope will therefore be focused on development of assays to support a distinct testing funnel, screening efforts to identify hits, and initial characterization of hits and potential therapeutic agents (including small molecules, biologics, and natural products).
The HEAL Initiative: Studies to Enable Analgesic Discovery (R61/R33) is a prestigious NIH funding opportunity designed for researchers and organizations committed to developing safe, effective, and non-addictive pain therapeutics. This grant supports the critical early stages of drug discovery and development, focusing on translational research that bridges the gap between basic science and clinical applications. Eligible applicants include academic institutions, HBCUs, Hispanic-serving institutions, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian serving institutions, AANAPISIs, tribal governments, faith-based organizations, and community-based organizations. The funding supports the development of assays, screening efforts to identify promising compounds, and initial characterization of potential therapeutic agents including small molecules, biologics, and natural products. Researchers should apply if they have innovative approaches to pain management that address the opioid crisis and can advance projects toward the Pain Therapeutics Development Program. This opportunity is ideal for organizations seeking to contribute meaningfully to the national effort to combat addiction while developing novel pain management solutions. With funding up to $350,000 available and a January 2027 deadline, this represents a significant opportunity for qualified research teams to advance their analgesic discovery programs with federal support.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
January 15, 2027
Award Amount
Up to $350K
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Grant Amount
Up to $350K
Deadline
2027-01-15
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual (Deadline: January 15, 2027)
Best For
Research institutions, HBCUs, minority-serving institutions, tribal governments, and community-based organizations developing non-addictive pain therapeutics
Eligibility
Other Eligible Applicants include the following: Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions; Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions (AANAPISISs); Eligible Agencies of the Federal Government; Faith-based or Community-based Organizations; Hispanic-serving Institutions; Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs); Indian/Native American Tribal Govern
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for HEAL Initiative: Studies to Enable Analgesic Discovery (R61/R33 - Clinical Trial Not Allowed)?
Eligible applicants include Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions, Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions (AANAPISIs), eligible federal agencies, faith-based and community-based organizations, Hispanic-serving institutions, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and Indian/Native American tribal governments. For a complete and current list of eligible entity types, visit the official NIH HEAL Initiative website.
How much funding does HEAL Initiative: Studies to Enable Analgesic Discovery (R61/R33 - Clinical Trial Not Allowed) provide?
This grant opportunity provides up to $350,000 in funding. The specific amount for your project may vary based on the scope and review process. Contact the NIH or visit the official NOFO for detailed budget information and any caps on indirect costs.
How do I apply for HEAL Initiative: Studies to Enable Analgesic Discovery (R61/R33 - Clinical Trial Not Allowed)?
Applications are submitted through the NIH electronic submission system (eRA Commons). You will need to prepare a detailed research proposal, budget justification, and supporting documentation. The next deadline is January 15, 2027. Visit the official NIH HEAL Initiative NOFO page for complete application instructions, required forms, and submission guidelines.
What can HEAL Initiative: Studies to Enable Analgesic Discovery (R61/R33 - Clinical Trial Not Allowed) funding be used for?
Funding supports translational research focused on developing safe, effective, non-addictive pain therapeutics. Allowable uses include developing assays to support drug screening funnels, screening efforts to identify promising compounds (hits), and initial characterization of potential therapeutic agents such as small molecules, biologics, and natural products. Clinical trials are not permitted under this funding mechanism. Please consult the official NOFO for detailed scope and allowable activities.
Last updated: July 5, 2026