Blueprint MedTech Translator (UG3/UH3 - Clinical Trial Optional)

The Blueprint MedTech Translator is a funding program that encourages researchers to focus on translational activities and clinical feasibility to develop therapeutic and diagnostic equipment related to nerve or neuromuscular disorders. This program covers activities such as the implementation of clinical prototype devices, non-clinical safety and efficacy testing, design verification and validation processes, and acquiring essential permissions such as the Investigational Device Exemption or Institutional Review Board approval. Furthermore, it supports subsequent clinical feasibility studies that provide crucial data about the device's functionalities and designs that cannot be feasibly obtained through benchtop or animal testing due to the device's innovative nature.

This funding program operates as a milestone-driven cooperative agreement involving participation from NIH program staff. They assist in refining the final project plan before approval and continuously monitor the project's progress. Beneficiaries of this program will fund all the activities within their own labs but can also collaborate with NIH-funded consultants specialized in regulatory measures, reimbursement, intellectual property, commercialization, and strategic partnerships.

They have the option to supplement their project with NIH contract research organizations specializing in large animal testing, sterilization testing, biocompatibility assessment, manufacturing, and medical monitoring.

This grant opportunity welcomes applications from either individuals, institutions, or businesses who are developing their devices or who already have established collaborations with device manufacturers. More information is available on the BP MedTech website.