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FAQ About BrIDGs


How did the application review process change under the Bridging Interventional Development Gaps (BrIDGs) program compared with its predecessor, the NIH Rapid Access to Intervention Development (RAID) program?

The application is no longer reviewed by the NIH Center for Scientific Review. BrIDGs applications are still peer-reviewed, but by a panel of external experts convened by NCATS. The intent of this change is to shorten the time between application submission and notification of a decision by NIH.

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How long is the approval process?

BrIDGs notifies successful applicants within seven months of submitting an application. Unsuccessful applicants are notified sooner.

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How much is a BrIDGs award worth?

Applicants to BrIDGs receive access to contract resources instead of funding. The value of the services provided depends on the terms of the contracts that are in place and the services that are provided to each applicant, which may vary.

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Am I required to have an active NIH grant to be eligible for BrIDGs?

No.

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How do I know if my business is eligible to receive support?

A business is eligible if it meets the criteria for applying for an NIH Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) or Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grant. An active SBIR/STTR grant is not required. See the NIH SBIR/STTR eligibility criteria for more information.

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Are in vivo efficacy data required to submit an application to the program?

Competitive applications will include data from the most relevant in vivo models available.

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Am I required to reveal the chemical structure of my compound in the application?

No, but failure to do so may lead to a less competitive application. Applicants who decline to reveal structures should provide the rational for selecting their compound and describe their efforts to optimize its pharmacological characteristics.

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May I out-license my compound and continue to receive BrIDGs support?

Yes, a compound may be licensed before, during or after working with BrIDGs. The principal investigator from the applicant organization will continue to serve as the point of contact for the project. The licensee is welcome to participate in project meetings and decisions with the permission of the principal investigator.

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How does BrIDGs handle confidentiality?

All peer reviewers sign conflict-of-interest and confidentiality agreements before receiving access to applications. Non-negotiable NIH material transfer agreements will be put into place at an appropriate time after the approval of a project and will form the basis for sharing confidential information with NIH.

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Learn More About BrIDGs

BrIDGs makes available, on a competitive basis, certain critical resources needed for the development of new therapeutic agents. Learn more about this program.