WBDC Launch Pad Grant Program

This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) invites applications for Diabetes Research Centers (DRCs) that are designed to support and enhance the national research effort in diabetes, its complications, and related endocrine and metabolic diseases. The purpose of this Centers program is to bring together basic and clinical investigators to enhance communication, multidisciplinary collaboration, and effectiveness of ongoing research in Diabetes Research Center topic areas. By providing shared access to specialized technical resources (research cores) and supporting a Pilot and Feasibility Program (P&F), DRCs are intended to create an environment that provides the capability for accomplishments greater than those that would be possible by individual research project grant support alone. New Center programs that bring in diverse perspectives, propose unique scientific themes, or provide innovative resources are encouraged. Emphasis will be placed on Center programs that propose enhanced synergies with other NIDDK-funded programs as well as providing a rich mentoring environment for future diabetes researchers.

The WEDC provides grant matching for businesses that have received a Phase I or Phase II federal SBIR grant. Businesses that have received a Phase I award are eligible for a 50% matching grant, up to $75,000. Businesses that have received a Phase II award are eligible for 100% matching per year for up to two years.

The Proof of Concept program provides up to $25,000 to conduct research that demonstrates the technical and economic feasibility of an innovation before it is commercialized. The program is open to those committed to commercializing an innovation in South Dakota, such as entrepreneurs, universities, existing South Dakota companies and other entities. Investment proceeds may be used to pay consultant contracts, material and supplies, salaries for employees in South Dakota, and necessary services for technical feasibility or marketing studies.

The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) invites applications for Clinical Research Center Grants designed to advance the diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and amelioration of human sensory and communication disorders. For this announcement, Clinical Research is defined as research involving individuals with a sensory and/or communication disorder, or data/tissues from individuals with a sensory and/or communication disorder. Examples of such research include but are not limited to, studies of the prevention, pathogenesis, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, management or epidemiology of a disease or disorder of hearing, balance, smell, taste, voice, speech, or language. Although the intent is that all the research will involve individuals with sensory and/or communication disorders or data/tissues from individuals with sensory and/or communication disorders, when the clinical research goal(s) warrant(s) limited departures from this intent, alternatives (e.g., non-human research, human subjects without a sensory or communication disorder, human at risk for a sensory and/or communication disorder) are possible with appropriate and strong scientific justification and in consultation with NIDCD staff. Applications may propose a low-risk clinical trial but are not required to (optional).

The City of Chicago helps support business and neighborhood vitality through Community Development Grant (CDG) awards. CDGs use proceeds from the 2024 Housing and Development Bond and other funding sources to support a variety of eligible, business-related investments in construction and real estate development. Small grants up to $250,000 are intended to support eligible commercial, mixed-use and light manufacturing projects. Grants provide funding for up to 75% of total eligible project costs involving new construction, rehabilitation or both. Priority is given to projects with strong local impacts that leverage local talents, capacities and institutions and contribute to community vitality. Private and non-profit developers, property owners and businesses are eligible to apply.