2026 “$100,000 Start an SUD Startup” Challenge
NIH Challenges' 2026 “$100,000 Start an SUD Startup” Challenge supports teams translating research on drug use and SUD into biotech startups through mentorship and cash prizes.
Funder: NIH Challenges
Due Dates: November 2, 2026: Submission deadline
Funding Amounts: Up to $100,000 total cash prizes; up to 12 teams may win up to $10,000 each plus intensive 6-month mentorship.
Summary: Annual competition supporting teams to develop biotech startups addressing drug use, misuse, and substance use disorder (SUD).
Key Information: Teams must have 3–5 members; Team Leader must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
Description
The annual “$100,000 Start an SUD Startup” Challenge, administered by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) through NIH Challenges, aims to accelerate the translation of innovative research ideas into viable biotech startups focused on drug use, misuse, and substance use disorder (SUD). The competition is structured in two stages: selected teams first receive a 6-month, intensive product development mentorship from NIDA entrepreneurship experts. Upon successful completion, teams present their startup concepts for a chance to win cash prizes. The Challenge is designed to provide both entrepreneurial guidance and early-stage funding, helping teams validate and advance their concepts toward future NIH small business funding opportunities.
