Limited Competition: Small Grant Program for the NCATS Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) Program (R03 Clinical Trial Optional)
About
The purpose of this NOFO is to enhance the capability of NCATS CTSA Program KL2 scholars and recipients of re-entry supplements supported by the CTSA Program to conduct research as they complete the transition to fully independent academic translational scientists. These R03 grants will support different clinical and translational science research projects, including pilot and feasibility studies; secondary data analysis of existing data; small, self-contained research projects; development of research methodology; and development of new research technology. Research proposed in the R03 application may or may not include patient-oriented research. The R03 is, therefore, intended to support research projects that can be carried out in a short period of time with limited resources and that provide preliminary data to support submission of a subsequent R01, or equivalent, application.
The Limited Competition: Small Grant Program for the NCATS Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) Program (R03 Clinical Trial Optional) is designed to support early-career academic researchers who are transitioning to independence in clinical and translational science. This grant specifically targets KL2 scholars and recipients of CTSA Program re-entry supplements who are completing their training phase. The R03 mechanism funds diverse research activities including pilot and feasibility studies, secondary data analysis, small self-contained research projects, research methodology development, and new research technology development. With funding up to $50,000, this program enables researchers to conduct short-term, limited-resource projects that generate preliminary data essential for future R01 or equivalent grant applications. Research may be patient-oriented or non-patient-oriented, providing flexibility for various clinical and translational science approaches. Eligible institutions include HBCUs, Hispanic-serving institutions, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions, AANAPISIs, and faith-based or community-based organizations. This is an ideal opportunity for emerging scientists to establish their research trajectory and build the preliminary evidence needed for larger, sustained funding opportunities.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
October 19, 2026
Award Amount
Up to $50K
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Grant Amount
Up to $50K
Deadline
2026-10-19
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual (Deadline: October 19, 2026)
Best For
Early-career academic researchers transitioning to independence in clinical and translational science; KL2 scholars and CTSA Program re-entry supplement recipients; Researchers at HBCUs, Hispanic-serving institutions, and other eligible institutions
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 Limited Competition: Small Grant Program for the NCATS Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) Program (R03 Clinical Trial Optional)?
This grant is available to NCATS CTSA Program KL2 scholars and recipients of re-entry supplements. Eligible applicant institutions include Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-serving Institutions, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions, Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions (AANAPISIs), eligible Federal agencies, faith-based organizations, and community-based organizations. For complete eligibility requirements and institutional certifications, consult the official NCATS CTSA Program Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO).
How much funding does Limited Competition: Small Grant Program for the NCATS Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) Program (R03 Clinical Trial Optional) provide?
This grant program provides funding up to $50,000 to support limited-scope research projects. The exact amount available in any given funding cycle may vary, so applicants should review the current NOFO on the NCATS website for specific details regarding the current grant cycle.
How do I apply for Limited Competition: Small Grant Program for the NCATS Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) Program (R03 Clinical Trial Optional)?
Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov using the NIH electronic application system (eRA Commons). Applicants should obtain the current Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) from the NCATS website to review specific submission requirements, format guidelines, and documentation needed. The application deadline is October 19, 2026. Contact your institution's grants office or visit the official NCATS CTSA Program website for detailed application instructions and technical support.
What can Limited Competition: Small Grant Program for the NCATS Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) Program (R03 Clinical Trial Optional) funding be used for?
R03 funding supports pilot and feasibility studies, secondary data analysis of existing datasets, small self-contained research projects, research methodology development, and development of new research technologies. Research may be patient-oriented or non-patient-oriented. Funds are intended for research that can be completed in a short timeframe with limited resources and that generates preliminary data to support future R01 or equivalent grant applications. Clinical trial components are optional under this mechanism.
Last updated: July 5, 2026