Department of Education: Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects – Field Initiated Projects Program

Please review the official application notice for pre-application and application requirements, application submission information, performance measures, priorities and program contact information.

Purpose of Program: The purpose of the Field Initiated (FI) Projects program is to develop methods, procedures, and rehabilitation technology that maximize the full inclusion and integration into society, employment, independent living, family support, and economic and social self-sufficiency of individuals with disabilities, especially individuals with the most severe disabilities. Another purpose of the FI Projects program is to improve the effectiveness of services authorized under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.
NIDRR makes two types of awards under the FI Projects program: Research grants (CFDA 84.133G-1) and development grants (CFDA 84.133G-2).
In carrying out a research activity under an FI Projects research grant, a grantee must identify one or more hypotheses or research questions and, based on the hypotheses or research questions identified, perform an intensive, systematic study directed toward producing (1) new scientific knowledge, or (2) better understanding of the subject, problem studied, or body of knowledge.
In carrying out a development activity under an FI Projects development grant, a grantee must use knowledge and understanding gained from research to create materials, devices, systems, or methods, including designing and developing prototypes and processes, that are beneficial to the target population. “Target population” means the group of individuals, organizations, or other entities expected to be affected by the project. There may be more than one target population because a project may affect those who receive services, provide services, or administer services.

Note: This program is in concert with NIDRR’s currently approved long-range plan (the Plan). The Plan is comprehensive and integrates many issues relating to disability and rehabilitation research. The Plan, which was published in the Federal Register on February 15, 2006 (71 FR 8165), can be accessed on the Internet at: www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/nidrr/policy.html.

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 84.133G-1 (Research)

Applications for grants under the FI Projects program, CFDA Number 84.133G-1 (Research) or 84.133G-2 (Development), must be submitted
electronically using the Governmentwide Grants.gov Apply site at www.Grants.gov. Through this site, you will be able to download a copy
of the application package, complete it offline, and then upload and submit your application. You may not email an electronic copy of a grant application to us.
You may access the electronic grant application for the FI Projects program–CFDA Number 84.133G-1 (Research) or 84.133G-2 (Development)–at www.Grants.gov. You must search for the downloadable application package for this competition by the CFDA number. Do not include the CFDA number’s alpha suffix in your search (e.g., search for 84.133, not 84.133G).