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Blueprint Neurotherapeutics Network (BPN): Biologic-based Drug Discovery and Development for Disorders of the Nervous System (UG3/UH3 Clinical Trial Optional)

US · US National Institutes of Health (NIH) grant open #PAR-24-293
Response due Aug 18, 2027 · 00:00 UTC

Summary

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is soliciting applications through the Blueprint Neurotherapeutics Network (BPN) program to support biologic-based drug discovery and development targeting disorders of the nervous system. The funding opportunity uses a UG3/UH3 phased award mechanism, where UG3 supports early-stage development milestones before transitioning to UH3 for advanced development. Clinical trials are optional under this announcement. The program is part of NIH's broader Blueprint initiative to advance neurotherapeutics from concept through preclinical and potentially clinical stages.

What they want

Applicants must propose biologic-based drug discovery and development projects focused on disorders of the nervous system. The phased UG3/UH3 mechanism requires milestone-driven progression: the UG3 phase covers early drug discovery/development activities, and successful completion of milestones allows transition to the UH3 phase for later-stage development. Clinical trials are permitted but not required. Projects must align with NIH Blueprint Neurotherapeutics Network goals.
Deliverables
  • Milestone completion reports for UG3 phase transition
  • Drug discovery and development data packages
  • Optional clinical trial protocols and results (if clinical trial option selected)
  • Progress and final reports per NIH reporting requirements
Technical requirements
  • Projects must focus on biologic-based (not small molecule) drug candidates
  • Must target disorders of the nervous system
  • Must follow phased UG3 (early development) to UH3 (advanced development) milestone-driven structure
  • Clinical trials are optional but must be explicitly addressed in application

How they evaluate

Submission: Grants.gov federal grants portal (electronic submission)

Risks & flags

  • Extremely long open window (nearly 3 years) with rolling submissions may advantage well-resourced academic medical centers with established NIH relationships
  • UG3/UH3 phased mechanism with milestone gates can favor applicants with pre-existing NIH Blueprint infrastructure or prior BPN experience

Market context

inferred from NAICS
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services
NAICS 541714
US market size
$2.0T
Typical award
$25K – $50M
Typical buyers
All federal civilianDoDStates
Commonly required
8(a)WOSBSDVOSBPE/PMP

Sector-level estimate — full code lookup not yet in catalog.

Blueprint Neurotherapeutics Network (BPN):…
Due Aug 18
Onboard ↗