NIDCR FY 2026 Interim Funding Policy

Underlying NIDCR’s Financial Management Plan is the institute’s goal of providing stable levels of support for high-quality scientific research and research training.

NIDCR is currently operating under the FY2026 Continuing Appropriations, Agriculture, Leg. Branch, MCVA and Extensions Act (Public Law 119-37) signed by President Trump on November 12, 2025 (see NIH Notice NOT-OD-26-011). This Act continues government operations through January 30, 2026, at the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 enacted level, with no reduction.

FY 2026 Competing Policy

NIDCR will continue to provide individual consideration for all competing applications. Our competing policy is currently being developed and will be updated on this page.

All competing renewal (Type 2) research project grant (RPG) applications submitted on or after January 23, 2023, will be capped at 20 percent above the average annual direct costs of the last competing segment.

Beginning in FY 2027, all competing renewal (Type 2) research project grant (RPG) applications will be capped at 15 percent above the average annual direct costs of the last competing segment.

FY 2026 Noncompeting Policy

Consistent with NIH policy (NOT-OD-26-011), NIDCR will fund noncompeting continuation research grant award at 90 percent of the previous commitment level indicated on the most recent Notice of Award. Upward adjustments to awarded levels will be considered after FY 2026 appropriations are enacted.

NIDCR will consider the scientific merit of applications from the peer review process in conjunction with institute- and NIH-wide priorities, new scientific opportunities, portfolio balance, alignment with the NIDCR Strategic Plan 2021–2026, changes in the projected number of applications, projected award costs, and other relevant factors.

Consistent with the NIH Next Generation Researchers Initiative, NIDCR is committed to maintaining a robust workforce through additional funding consideration for supporting Early Stage Investigators and At-Risk Investigators.