DoW Multiple Sclerosis Investigator-Initiated Research Award

The FY26 Multiple Sclerosis Research Program (MSRP) Investigator-Initiated Research Award (IIRA) seeks to fund high-impact research projects (excluding clinical trials) that contribute to MS research, patient care, and quality of life. Administered by the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP), this funding opportunity offers approximately $6.0M for six awards, each with a maximum of $1.0M over three years. Eligibility extends to U.S. Department of War organizations, with options for Established or New Investigators. New Investigators must be within five years of their non-mentored position and have received less than $300,000 in previous MS research funding. Applications must address specific focus areas, including CNS repair, disease activity correlates (using pre-existing data), MS symptom biology, and mechanisms of etiology/progression. The application process involves a two-step submission via eBRAP and Grants.gov, with deadlines on July 30, 2026 (pre-application) and August 13, 2026 (full application). Submissions undergo peer and programmatic review, with funding contingent on scientific merit, programmatic relevance, and fund availability. Several administrative actions, including rejection or withdrawal, can occur for non-compliance with submission guidelines or eligibility criteria.