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Maximizing Investigators’ Research Award (MIRA) for Early Stage Investigators (ESI)

National Institutes of Health Nonprofit eligible

National Institutes of Health is funding health projects through this opportunity, which is open to nonprofits and other eligible applicants, with applications due Feb 6, 2029.

Apply on Grants.gov
Deadline
Feb 6, 2029
Posted
May 12, 2026
Opportunity number
PAR-27-032
CFDA
93.859
Health

Opportunity description

The Maximizing Investigators' Research Award (MIRA) for Early Stage Investigators (ESIs) provides support for ESIs with a program of research that aligns with the NIGMS mission.MIRA distributes funding among promising investigators across the country. The goal is to boost scientific productivity and the chances for important breakthroughs.Through this program, investigators can:Receive independent research funding early to start and sustain strong research careers.Explore new, unique research areas in the NIGMS mission.Take on ambitious, creative projects.Shift focus to include emerging techniques and technologies as needed.Devote more time to mentoring trainees in a stable research environment.

Who can apply

  • Small businesses
  • Public and State controlled institutions of higher education
  • Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
  • Others (see text field entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility" for clarification)
  • Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized)
  • State governments
  • For profit organizations other than small businesses
  • Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments)
  • County governments
  • Independent school districts
  • Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
  • Special district governments
  • City or township governments
  • Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities
  • Private institutions of higher education

Refer to the Eligibility section in the NOFO for additional information on eligibility.Foreign institutions: Foreign components, as defined in the NIH Grants Policy Statement, are allowed.These types of organizations are not eligible to apply: Non-domestic (non-U.S.) entities (foreign institutions), Non-domestic (non-U.S.) components of U.S. organizations.

Agency contact

National Institutes of Health

National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) NIGMS-ESIMIRA@nigms.nih.gov

NIGMS-ESIMIRA@nigms.nih.gov

Next steps to apply

To apply, head to the official Grants.gov listing — that is where registration and submission happen. Always re-check the closing date there, as agencies can revise it.

Official Grants.gov listing

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