Impact Grants fund research projects at the University of Michigan that have the potential to move depression research forward through innovation and collaboration.

Impact Grants support inventive, forward-thinking U-M investigators – regardless of field of study – who are interested in accelerating the field of depression and bipolar research. Breakthroughs often occur at the crossroads of disciplinary fields. Our goal is to foster greater collaboration among U-M researchers to expedite discoveries that lead to improved outcomes throughout our communities. 

Impact Grants typically range from $10,000 to $100,000 per project, with at least one $50,000 award and up to $450,000 in total funding available for the 2024 cycle. Projects that can be completed for significantly less than $100,000 are strongly encouraged, as are smaller pilot projects from first-time investigators. 

Letters of intent for the 2024 cycle were due Friday, June 21.

Streamlined application process 

Administrative red-tape is often a barrier for investigators looking to get their study off the ground. To empower researchers to pursue bold, out-of-the box ideas, we’ve streamlined our process to minimize the burden on applicants. One intriguing idea and one compelling page is all you need to get started.

Your one-page letter of intent should include: 

  • Abstract or description of your idea and title of research project
  • Name of principal investigator and any co-investigators, with titles and home departments 
  • Proposed project duration
  • If you have access to any sources of additional funding to support this work/project, briefly explain why Impact Grant funds are also needed
  • Total funding amount needed. Please note: You do not need to submit a detailed budget at this stage.

Looking for more information? Check out our FAQ page and grant guidelines for details.

 

If you have questions, contact Karen Dugas, Research Innovation core manager or Valerie Kahn, managing director.

 

This funding program is made possible through the generous funding provided through the Frances and Kenneth Eisenberg Translational Research Award, the Frances and Kenneth Eisenberg Scholar Award, the John F. Greden Legacy Research Fund and the Rachel Upjohn Clinical Scholar Award.