Multi-Site Investigator-Initiated Clinical Trials (Collaborative UG3/UH3 Clinical Trial Required)

Forecasted opportunity (not yet open for applications; expected to be posted around 2026-11-16; estimated application due date 2027-02-16). The NIH intends to publish a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to solicit applications to develop and implement investigator-initiated multi-site clinical trials, including efficacy, effectiveness, pragmatic, and/or implementation research clinical trials. Applications that propose a large and/or complex clinical trial conducted at either a single site or at multiple locations but without physical clinical sites (e.g., decentralized or virtual trials) may also be eligible. Proposed trials must be relevant to the research mission of the participating ICs and meet the NIH definition of a clinical trial (see NOT-OD-15-015 and NOT-OD-26-032). The objective of the application is to present 1) the scientific rationale as well as a comprehensive scientific and operational plan for the trial, and 2) a comprehensive plan to provide overall project coordination, administration, data management, and biostatistical support for the clinical trial. Applications are not being solicited at this time. Notice is being provided to allow potential applicants sufficient time to develop meaningful collaborations and responsive projects. This NOFO will utilize a bi-phasic (UG3/UH3), milestone-driven mechanism consisting of a start-up phase up to 2 years (UG3) and a full enrollment and clinical trial implementation phase up to 5 years (UH3), for a total award duration of up to 7 years. A UG3 project that meets its milestones will be administratively considered for transition to the UH3 award. Investigators with expertise and insights into this area are encouraged to begin to consider applying for this NOFO.