NIOSH Exploratory/Developmental Grant Program (R21)

The R21 grant program is designed to advance our understanding of occupational diseases and injuries by focusing on the following three objectives:

• Identify the risks and conditions linked to workplace health issues.
• Develop strategies to reduce risks and limit exposure to hazardous environments.
• Translate significant scientific discoveries into prevention measures and products that can effectively reduce work-related illnesses and injuries.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) actively supports exploratory and developmental research projects (R21) that pursue:

• Innovative scientific concepts.
• New model systems.
• Tools or technologies with the potential to make a meaningful impact on occupational safety and health.

Through this NOFO, applicants will:

• Provide a clear and concise description of the specific occupational health burden the proposal addresses.  
• Demonstrate how the proposed research activities will lead to outputs that directly contribute to alleviating this burden.
• Outline the expected outcomes and impacts of their research during the project and in the long term. 

Business

• For-profit organizations other than small businesses
• Small businesses

Nonprofit

• Nonprofits non-higher education without 501(c)(3)
• Nonprofits non-higher education with 501(c)(3)
• Other Native American tribal organizations

Education

• Private institutions of higher education
• Independent school districts
• Public and state institutions of higher education

Government

• Federally recognized Native American tribal governments
• City or township governments
• County governments
• State governments
• Public and Indian housing authorities
• Special district governments

Miscellaneous

• Unrestricted