2026 Innovator Award
Forecasted
The 2026 Innovator Award from the Hydrocephalus Association funds innovative research into non-invasive or permanent therapies and ways to improve or replace current shunt treatments for hydrocephalus.
Funder: Hydrocephalus Association
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Letter of Intent) | June 2027 (Full application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $25,000 or $50,000 per project for 12 months; 2–5 awards anticipated.
Summary: Provides seed funding for innovative research advancing non-invasive or one-time therapies for hydrocephalus, or reducing the burden of current shunt treatments.
Key Information: No indirect costs allowed; applicants must be HANDS members and based at non-profit institutions.
Description
The Hydrocephalus Association's Innovator Award supports bold, early-stage research projects aimed at transforming treatment options for hydrocephalus. The program specifically funds work developing non-invasive or one-time (permanent) therapies, or projects that reduce the challenges associated with current shunt-based treatments. The award is intended to generate preliminary data and catalyze future research efforts aligned with community-driven priorities.
