The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is offering the NEI Translational Research Program for Therapeutics (R61/R33 Clinical Trial Not Allowed), aimed at facilitating the rapid translation of innovative laboratory research into therapeutics for visual system diseases. This grant program supports the development of biological, pharmaceutical, medical device, and combination therapies, utilizing a bi-phasic, milestone-driven approach where the R61 phase focuses on preliminary research and the R33 phase advances candidates towards clinical trials. Interested applicants, including independent school districts and community-based organizations, can expect up to five awards with no cost-sharing requirement, and should prepare to submit applications by February 16, 2026, with an estimated award date of December 1, 2026. For further inquiries, contact Tony Gover, Ph.D., at tony.gover@nih.gov or call 301-529-7320.