Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Other Related Disabilities (LEND)
The LEND program trains professionals to screen, diagnose, and provide care for children and youth with autism and developmental disabilities.
Funder: Health Resources and Services Administration
Due Dates (Anticipated): June 2026 (Full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: $460,000–$734,000 per year; up to $38,300,000 total program funding; ~60 awards; project period typically 1 year
Summary: Supports training programs to improve care for children and youth with autism or developmental disabilities by developing the health workforce.
Description
This program aims to enhance the quality of care for children and youth with autism and other developmental disabilities (DD) by training health and related professionals. The initiative supports Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Other Related Disabilities (LEND) programs, which equip professionals to screen, diagnose, and provide comprehensive services for individuals with autism/DD across the lifespan. The focus is on interdisciplinary training to build capacity in health, education, and social service systems serving this population.
