The Department of Health and Human Services, through the National Institutes of Health (NIH), announces the Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) aimed at supporting small-scale biomedical research projects at undergraduate-focused institutions lacking substantial NIH funding. The initiative emphasizes enhancing the research environment and providing undergraduates with significant research experiences. Eligible institutions must have awarded fewer than $6 million in NIH support over the last seven years and prioritize undergraduate enrollment. The program focuses on investigator-initiated, low-risk clinical trials that may not require FDA oversight. Applications are accepted for new proposals, renewals, and resubmissions, with a funding request limit of up to $375,000 for a maximum of three years. The review process evaluates scientific merit, the research environment, and the involvement of undergraduate students, aiming to foster diversity and inclusion in research. Key dates for application submission begin January 25, 2025, with an expiration date of January 8, 2028. Overall, this NOFO serves to stimulate research engagement at less-funded institutions, ultimately contributing to the development of future scientists.