Brint Family Translational Research Award
The Brint Family Translational Research Award funds preclinical research advancing therapies for inherited retinal degenerations and dry AMD, emphasizing projects with clear clinical translation potential.
Funder: Foundation Fighting Blindness
Due Dates: June 18, 2026 (Letter of Intent) | October 22, 2026 (Full Application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $1,000,000 total over three years; typically 5–7 awards per cycle; no indirect costs allowed.
Summary: Supports preclinical translational research to advance therapies for inherited retinal degenerations and dry age-related macular degeneration.
Key Information: LOI is required for invitation to full application; international and company applicants eligible.
Description
This program funds milestone-driven preclinical translational research focused on accelerating the development of therapies for inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs) and dry age-related macular degeneration (dAMD). The award provides both financial support and strategic mentorship, including guidance in drug development, regulatory strategy, intellectual property, and commercialization. Projects should move promising therapeutic candidates (gene, RNA, small molecule, biologic, cell-based, or device-based) from lead optimization through IND/IDE-enabling studies, with a clear path toward clinical application.
Priority is given to proposals in three areas:
- Novel Medical Therapies (e.g., small molecules, biologics, alternative therapies)
- Genetic Technologies (e.g., gene/RNA editing, delivery systems)
- Restorative Therapies (e.g., cell transplantation, optogenetics, visual prosthetics)
Projects outside these categories may be considered with strong justification and preliminary data. The Foundation emphasizes research with a clear translational endpoint and clinical relevance.
