Deadline: 06-Jan-2026
The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) is offering funding of up to $750,000 per project for innovative studies aimed at improving methods for patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research. Projects may last up to three years, with total PCORI funding of approximately $12 million available. Eligible applicants include academic institutions, nonprofit and for-profit research organizations, and federal agencies capable of conducting rigorous, ethically compliant studies with strong patient engagement.
Overview
The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) invites qualified organizations to apply for funding to support innovative research methods in patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness studies. The program aims to advance methodologies that improve healthcare decision-making, patient outcomes, and overall health system efficiency.
Programme Objectives
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Develop and improve methods for patient-centered comparative effectiveness research (CER).
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Ensure research outcomes are meaningful and actionable for patients, clinicians, and stakeholders.
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Promote transparency, ethical research standards, and rigorous data management.
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Facilitate public dissemination of research findings to enhance healthcare decision-making.
Funding Details
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Maximum Grant Amount: $750,000 per project.
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Total Funding Available: Approximately $12 million across all projects.
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Project Duration: Up to three years (exceptions not permitted).
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Funding Use: Includes all research costs and peer review–related expenses.
Who Is Eligible?
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Academic institutions with demonstrated research capacity.
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Private sector research organizations.
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Nonprofit and for-profit research entities.
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Federal agencies capable of conducting rigorous patient-centered research.
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International organizations may apply if research benefits U.S. healthcare and includes engagement with U.S. patients and stakeholders.
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Note: Individual applicants are not eligible.
Key Requirements
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Methodology Compliance
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Adhere to PCORI Methodology Standards.
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Include patient engagement plans and advisory panel involvement where appropriate.
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Data Management
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Deposit de-identified data in PCORI-designated repositories.
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Maintain strict data privacy and security standards.
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Transparency and Ethics
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Follow conflict-of-interest policies.
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Ensure ethical standards in all research activities.
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Make study findings publicly accessible per PCORI policies.
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Project Planning
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Align project scope and duration with work required (maximum three years).
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Budget must not exceed $750,000 per project.
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Exceptions to budget or project period limits are not permitted.
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Why This Opportunity Matters
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Advances patient-centered research methodologies critical to clinical decision-making.
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Generates actionable evidence to improve healthcare outcomes in the U.S.
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Supports transparent, ethical, and rigorous research practices.
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Strengthens collaboration between patients, researchers, and healthcare stakeholders.
How to Apply / How It Works
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Review Eligibility and Requirements
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Ensure organization type, research capacity, and U.S. healthcare relevance (for international applicants).
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Develop Project Proposal
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Define research objectives, methodology, patient engagement plans, and expected outcomes.
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Prepare detailed budget within $750,000 limit and project timeline up to three years.
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Submit Application
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Follow PCORI submission guidelines and include all required documentation.
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Evaluation and Selection
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Proposals assessed based on innovation, methodological rigor, patient-centered focus, feasibility, and alignment with PCORI standards.
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Tips for Applicants
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Emphasize patient engagement and actionable research outcomes.
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Clearly justify project relevance to U.S. healthcare if applying internationally.
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Include strong plans for data management, privacy, and public dissemination.
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Review PCORI’s standard research contract before submission.
FAQ
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What is the maximum grant amount?
$750,000 per project. -
How long can projects last?
Up to three years. -
Can individuals apply?
No, only eligible organizations may apply. -
Are international organizations eligible?
Yes, if the research benefits U.S. healthcare and engages U.S. patients. -
Does funding cover all research costs?
Yes, including peer review–related expenses. -
Is patient engagement required?
Yes, all projects must involve meaningful engagement with patients and stakeholders. -
Must research findings be publicly accessible?
Yes, all study results must be made publicly available following PCORI policies.
Conclusion
PCORI’s funding opportunity offers a significant platform for organizations to advance patient-centered research methods in comparative clinical effectiveness. By supporting innovative studies that prioritize patient engagement, rigorous methodology, and public dissemination, this program strengthens healthcare decision-making, improves patient outcomes, and contributes to a more effective and transparent health system.
For more information, visit PCORI.









































