DoW Orthopaedic, Clinical Research Award

The fiscal year 2026 Orthopaedic Research Program Clinical Research Award (HT942526ORPCRA) is a solicitation by the Defense Health Agency to fund clinical research and trials aimed at optimizing orthopaedic patient outcomes for Service Members, Veterans, and the general public. The program is divided into two tiers: Research Level 1 (RL1), which supports clinical research with a budget cap of 2.0 million dollars, and Research Level 2 (RL2), which supports clinical trials with a budget cap of 3.2 million dollars. Key focus areas for RL1 include ligamentous trauma, osseointegration outcomes, return-to-duty strategies, and military women's health, while RL2 focuses on ligamentous trauma, limb stabilization and protection, and return-to-duty strategies. The maximum period of performance for these awards is four years. Applicants must be registered with active status in SAM.gov, eBRAP.org, and Grants.gov. The application process involves a two-step submission, with pre-applications due by August 19, 2026, and full applications due by November 18, 2026. Proposals are evaluated through a two-tier review process consisting of a peer review for technical merit and a programmatic review for military relevance. Required documentation includes a project narrative, regulatory strategy, impact statement, and a post-award transition plan. Strict adherence to human subject protections, IRB reporting, and regulatory compliance for medical products is mandatory. Funding is administered by the CDMRP, with final recommendations subject to approval by a designated official.