Bridge Funding for Disrupted Neurodegenerative Research Grant Program (BFDN) Powering the Next Generation of Research
Bridge funding for early career researchers to sustain neurodegenerative disease projects disrupted by changes in U.S. federal funding.
Funder: Alzheimer's Association
Due Dates: July 30, 2026 (LOI) | October 30, 2026 (LOI) | January 29, 2027 (LOI) | April 30, 2027 (LOI)
Funding Amounts: Up to $250,000 total for 3–12 months; institutional cost-sharing up to 25% required.
Summary: Supports early career researchers with bridge funding to sustain neurodegenerative disease research projects disrupted by changes in U.S. federal funding.
Key Information: LOI required; applicants must demonstrate research disruption and financial need; only one proposal per applicant per cycle.
Description
This program, jointly offered by the Alzheimer’s Association, The Michael J. Fox Foundation, and the Robertson Foundation, provides critical interim funding to early career researchers whose neurodegenerative disease research projects have been disrupted by recent changes in U.S. federal funding (primarily NIH). The goal is to ensure continuity of high-potential research in Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Frontotemporal Dementia, Dementia with Lewy Bodies, atypical Parkinson's, and related disorders. Funding supports salary and direct research costs, helping early stage investigators maintain momentum and prepare for future permanent funding.
