CMT Research Foundation Funding Program

The CMT Research Foundation (CMTRF) funds cutting-edge research focused on delivering treatments and cures for Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT). The foundation accepts research proposals from a broad range of institutions, with an emphasis on advancing therapeutic development across all types of CMT. Funding decisions are driven by organizational priorities, but innovative ideas outside current focus areas are also welcomed. Applicants are required to submit a Letter of Intent (LOI) before being invited to submit a full proposal. LOIs are reviewed on a rolling basis, and full proposals are accepted quarterly, with deadlines in December, February, May, and August. Applicants are advised to submit their LOIs at least six weeks prior to the nearest deadline to ensure timely review. If submitted later, the proposal may be deferred to the following quarter. CMTRF typically issues an invitation to submit a full proposal about three weeks after receiving an LOI. The foundation's funding is open to researchers and clinicians worldwide. Eligible applicants include academic medical centers, universities, nonprofit and for-profit research organizations, and biotech companies, particularly those with a direct interest in developing therapeutics for CMT. Funding for for-profit organizations is contingent on alignment with CMTRF’s mission and includes provisions for return on investment if funded intellectual property becomes commercially viable. Typical award durations range from one to three years, with average annual funding between $100,000 and $200,000 depending on the scope and phase of the project. Projects longer than one year must include well-defined milestones to guide funding continuation. Exceptional projects with larger funding needs may be considered, and co-funding from other partners is encouraged. Indirect costs are capped at 10%. The application process is iterative and collaborative. Feedback from CMTRF’s Scientific Advisory Board may be provided during both LOI and proposal stages to strengthen submissions. Full proposals must include both lay and scientific summaries, experimental plans, budgets, biosketches, and supporting documentation. Applicants typically receive feedback within three to eight weeks after submission. For additional questions or guidance, applicants can contact Kate Andersh at kate.andersh@cmtrf.org.

Submit LOI early to receive SAB feedback before full proposal. Highlight translational potential and include co-funding where applicable.