Blueprint Neurotherapeutics Network (BPN): Small Molecule Drug Discovery and Development
This NIH program supports researchers in developing small-molecule neurotherapeutics by providing funding, expert guidance, and industry resources to advance drug candidates toward clinical testing.
Funder: National Institutes of Health
Due Dates (Anticipated): June 2027 (Full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Expected 4 awards; phased cooperative agreements; typical NIH support for drug discovery and early development, details to be announced in the official FOA.
Summary: Supports investigator-initiated small molecule drug discovery and development for neurological disorders, providing access to NIH resources and expertise.
Key Information: Program excludes biologics; applications not yet being solicited—monitor for FOA release.
Description
This NIH program aims to advance promising small-molecule therapeutics for neurological disorders toward clinical testing. The Blueprint Neurotherapeutics Network for Small Molecules (BPN-SM) provides investigators with funding, access to NIH-supported subject matter experts, and contract research organizations (CROs) specializing in medicinal chemistry, pharmacokinetics, toxicology, formulation, GMP synthesis, and Phase I clinical testing. The initiative is designed to integrate NIH and industry-standard resources, enabling investigators to retain and strengthen intellectual property while gaining hands-on translational drug development experience. The program uses a phased, milestone-driven cooperative agreement mechanism, with substantial NIH involvement in project management. Only small molecule projects are eligible; biologics are excluded.
