Research to Cure and Prevent Type 1 (Juvenile) Diabetes Grant

The Research to Cure and Prevent Type 1 (Juvenile) Diabetes grant is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Health under the Juvenile Diabetes Cure Research Tax Check-off Program, which was established through Act 133 of 2004. This program allows Pennsylvania taxpayers to voluntarily contribute a portion of their state income tax refunds to support research focused on Type 1 diabetes. The initiative reflects the Commonwealth’s commitment to advancing scientific knowledge, improving public health outcomes, and addressing disparities in health conditions affecting children and adolescents across Pennsylvania. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support a single, high-quality research project that contributes to the prevention and treatment of Type 1 diabetes. Eligible research must focus on one or more of the following areas: restoring normal blood sugar levels, preventing or reversing complications associated with the disease, or preventing the onset of Type 1 diabetes altogether. The program emphasizes innovation and scientific merit, requiring applicants to propose hypothesis-driven research that can generate meaningful advancements in medical understanding and patient outcomes. Projects must align with statewide health priorities, including reducing health disparities and improving life expectancy. The total funding available for this opportunity is approximately 237,955 dollars, with the expectation that a single award will be made. The grant agreement is anticipated to begin on July 1, 2026, and may extend for up to four years. Funds must be used strictly for research-related activities as defined by the program, including personnel, equipment, and direct research costs. However, there are significant restrictions: funds cannot be used for general education programs, registries, routine patient care, international travel, or administrative management costs. Additionally, infrastructure expenses are capped at 50 percent of the total budget, and indirect costs may not exceed 20 percent of eligible direct costs. Eligibility is limited to institutions of higher education and independent research institutes located within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Applicants must conduct at least 98 percent of research activities within the state, although limited out-of-state collaboration is permitted under strict cost constraints. Collaborative projects are allowed and encouraged, but one organization must serve as the lead applicant and assume full responsibility for the grant. All applicants must be properly registered with the Pennsylvania Department of State and enrolled in the Commonwealth’s vendor system. The application process requires a mandatory Letter of Intent, which must be submitted via email by November 3, 2025. Only applicants who submit this form using the prescribed template will be invited to submit a full application. Following submission of the Letter of Intent, applicants receive access to a SharePoint portal where the complete application must be uploaded by November 24, 2025. Applications must follow a strict format and include detailed components such as a research proposal, budget, certifications, letters of support, and compliance documentation related to human subjects and research ethics. Applications undergo a two-stage evaluation process. First, an independent peer review panel assesses the scientific and technical merit of each proposal, including research design, methodology, and qualifications of personnel. Second, a Department review committee evaluates top-ranked applications to ensure alignment with program priorities, avoid duplication, and support a cohesive statewide research strategy. Final funding decisions are made by the Secretary of Health. Applicants can expect notification within approximately six months of the submission deadline. For inquiries, applicants may contact Sylvia Golas at the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Questions must be submitted via email by October 7, 2025, and responses will be publicly posted. The program does not follow a standard annual cycle and is categorized as “Other” frequency, meaning future opportunities may depend on funding availability. Awardees must comply with extensive reporting requirements, including annual progress reports, final reports, and performance evaluations, ensuring accountability and measurable impact from funded research.

Focus on strong scientific merit and alignment with stated research priorities; ensure compliance with all formatting and submission requirements; demonstrate collaboration and Pennsylvania-based impact