DoW Orthopaedic, Clinical Research Award

The FY26 Orthopaedic Research Program Clinical Research Award (HT942526ORPCRA) is a grant solicitation issued by the Defense Health Agency Contracting Activity to support clinical research and trials aimed at optimizing patient outcomes for Service Members, Veterans, and the general public. The program focuses on reducing the burden of orthopaedic injuries sustained during combat and service-related activities, specifically excluding spinal cord injuries. Research is divided into two levels: Research Level 1 (RL1) supports clinical research in ligamentous trauma, osseointegration outcomes, return-to-duty strategies, and military women's health, with a budget cap of 2.0 million dollars. Research Level 2 (RL2) supports clinical trials in ligamentous trauma, limb stabilization and protection, and return-to-duty strategies, with a budget cap of 3.2 million dollars. The maximum period of performance for these awards is four years. The application process is a two-step requirement consisting of a pre-application due September 25, 2026, and a full application due November 18, 2026. Extramural organizations must apply via Grants.gov, while intramural DoD organizations use the eBRAP portal. Applicants must maintain active registration in SAM.gov and provide a unique entity identifier. Evaluation is based primarily on research strategy and feasibility, with additional unscored reviews of the budget, environment, and data sharing plans. Key requirements include the disclosure of foreign affiliations for all key personnel, the submission of FDA IND or IDE filings prior to the deadline, and adherence to DoDGARs and DoD R&D terms and conditions.