SPARK Research Match Expansion Request for Applications
The SPARK Research Match Expansion RFA from SFARI funds autism studies using SPARK to recruit underrepresented genetic ancestry groups and enhance research diversity.
Funder: Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2026 | December 2026 | March 2027 | June 2027
Funding Amounts: Up to $10,000 per study, provided as participant incentive funding (e-gift cards) for undersampled groups; funds are not transferred to institutions.
Summary: Supports autism research studies that recruit historically underrepresented genetic ancestry groups using the SPARK Research Match platform.
Key Information: Application review is quarterly; only U.S. PIs at institutions with IRB approval and an executed Research Distribution Agreement are eligible.
Description
This opportunity aims to broaden the diversity of autism research by supporting studies that recruit participants from genetic ancestry groups historically underrepresented in autism studies within the United States. Researchers leverage the SPARK Research Match platform to connect with eligible participants, implement studies, and contribute data back to the SPARK database. Funding is provided strictly for participant incentives (e-gift cards) to encourage participation among these undersampled groups. The goal is to ensure autism research better reflects the demographic diversity of the U.S. and addresses the interests and needs of these communities.
