Biomedical Technology Optimization and Dissemination Center (BTOD)

The National Institutes of Health, through the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, is issuing Notice of Funding Opportunity PAR-27-024 to support Biomedical Technology Optimization and Dissemination Centers (BTOD). The program focuses on optimizing late-stage biomedical technologies that have already demonstrated laboratory feasibility, moving them toward wide-scale use and promoting their dissemination within the research community. These centers are structured around three integrated components: Technology Optimization Projects (TOPs) as the central focus, Driving Biomedical Projects (DBPs) that serve as test beds to ensure community needs are met, and Community Engagement (CE) activities involving training, commercialization, and public outreach. Eligible applicants include small businesses and other for-profit organizations. The maximum project period is five years, with a total lifetime support limit of 15 years. Funding is capped at 850,000 dollars in direct costs per year. Applications are evaluated based on scientific and technical merit, with reviewers assigning impact scores and merit descriptors ranging from Marginal to Exceptional. Key requirements for submission include active registration in SAM, a Unique Entity Identifier, and eRA Commons registration. Additionally, applicants must provide a Data Management and Sharing Plan and adhere to strict cybersecurity incident reporting guidelines, requiring notification of the HHS awarding agency within 48 hours of discovery.