The Administration for Community Living's National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research announces the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects (DRRP) Program focused on improving employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities. The program invites applicants to propose development projects that utilize research findings to create beneficial tools and interventions for this population. Recent employment statistics indicate a disparity in employment rates between individuals with and without disabilities, highlighting the need for effective strategies to enhance workforce participation. The funding opportunity includes a maximum of $500,000 for a 60-month project, allowing variations of research and development projects based on a peer review ranking. Eligible applicants encompass diverse organizations, including government and tribal entities. Various application requirements are outlined, including submission guidelines, project narratives, budget justification, and data management plans. Applications will undergo a critical review process assessing their relevance, design, and the qualifications of personnel involved. Successful applicants will receive funding notifications and must adhere to HHS compliance requirements. The initiative aims to close the employment gap and promote inclusivity for people with disabilities, in alignment with federal efforts to enhance equity in employment.

The Administration for Community Living (ACL) is offering a funding opportunity through the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects (DRRP) Program aimed at enhancing employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities. This initiative, numbered HHS-2025-ACL-NIDILRR-DPEM-0113, encourages the submission of development projects that leverage research insights to create innovative materials, methods, and interventions. The program, which celebrates inclusivity under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), targets systemic challenges that persist in employment rates for people with disabilities, despite recent improvements. The funding details indicate a total budget of $500,000, with applications due by March 18, 2025. Eligible applicants include state and local entities, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions. The program particularly emphasizes incorporating diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds in project samples and ensuring involvement from people with disabilities throughout the research and development process. Successful proposals will be evaluated based on relevance, design efficacy, feasibility, and applied research methodologies, with an expected project duration of five years segmented into annual budget periods. The funding aims to foster collaborative efforts that could lead to meaningful improvements in employment support and outcomes, advocating for a more equitable job market for individuals with disabilities.