Acorn Grants support scientists and multidisciplinary teams with seed funding to test innovative canine health ideas and generate preliminary data for larger or longer-term research.
Funder: American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation
Due Dates: February 23, 2027 (Spring cycle, 11:59 PM EST) | August 3, 2027 (Fall cycle, 11:59 PM EDT)
Funding Amounts: Up to $30,000 for small, short-term canine health research projects
Summary: Acorn Grants provide seed funding to test innovative canine health research ideas and generate preliminary data for larger studies.
Key Information: A pre-proposal and an invitation to submit a full application are required.
Acorn Grants are the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation’s seed-funding program for small, short-term canine health studies. The program supports the initial stages of new avenues of investigation, helping research scientists, veterinary clinical scientists, and multidisciplinary teams test innovative ideas or methods addressing important health concerns for dogs.
The goal is to generate preliminary data that investigators can use to secure support for larger-scale or longer-term research, often through the Foundation’s Oak Grants. Acorn-funded work includes epilepsy, spinal cord injury, eye health, cancer, hormonal health, and pain control. The program also welcomes researchers from diverse fields applying their expertise to canine health.