Morris Animal Foundation’s Pilot Study Awards fund innovative, early-stage research to advance animal health and generate foundational data for future large-scale studies.
Funder: Morris Animal Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2026 (Full application, Feline Health RFP) | February 2027 (Pre-proposal, Wildlife Health & Welfare) | May 2027 (Full proposal, Wildlife Health & Welfare, invited only)
Funding Amounts: Up to $20,000 per award for 12 months; indirect costs capped at 8% within total; equipment ≤ $5,000; travel ≤ $2,000.
Summary: Supports innovative, high-risk pilot studies to advance animal health and lay the groundwork for future, larger research projects.
Key Information: All dates are projected; check the program page for updates.
The Pilot Study Awards from Morris Animal Foundation provide seed funding for proof-of-concept, innovative, and potentially transformative research in animal health. These awards focus on high-risk, high-reward ideas that can accelerate discovery and establish a foundation for larger-scale research efforts. Projects must demonstrate scientific merit, novelty, and the potential for significant impact on animal health, with emphasis on translational value and broad engagement. The program supports research relevant to companion animals (specifically cats for the Feline Health RFP) and free-ranging wildlife mammals (Wildlife Health & Welfare RFP).