RRF is currently welcoming pilot study grant applications for the Grant Period:

January 1^st 2027 – December 31^st, 2027

The aim of the RRF pilot study grants program is to allow investigators to perform novel retina research that will result in preliminary data necessary for future applications to larger funding sources, including the NIH. The RRF pilot grants are awarded annually.  If satisfactory progress on annual review is noted, grants may be renewed up to three times (for 3 years). RRF pilot grant awards are typically $25,000 – $50,000. The number and size of the grant awards varies each year depending on the RRF’s income from donations and investments.

Grant re-applications are subject to repeat review on an individual basis each year.

The completed application should convey how the grant will serve to further the purpose of your research project.

All pilot study grant applications for the 2027 grant period
are due by: Tuesday, August 18, 2026.

Grant applications will be reviewed by the RRF Grants Selection Committee and approved by the RRF Board of Directors. All applicants will be notified of grant decisions in mid-January 2027.

Sincerely,

Arthur W. Willis, Jr., MD

President

APPLY NOW – see full application requirements 

General Guidelines for Grant Awards

A. The following are eligible to apply for grant awards:

1. Applicants who hold a medical degree (MD) and/or a doctorate (PhD);
2. Applicants who have a long term (at least 3 years) commitment to a project;
3. Applicants who will conduct research in the United States at a university, medical school or eye institute; applications from for-profit centers or industry-sponsored research centers will not be considered;
4. Applicants who are U. S. citizens or green card/permanent U. S. residents.

B. Topics: Retina research ONLY.

C. Grant budgets should include salaries, equipment and supplies. It is RRF policy not to fund the salary of the principal investigator(s). The following may not be included in budgets: travel expense, expenses related to publication of the research, and indirect costs.

D. Grants must be awarded for one year only.  Applicants must re-apply for continued funding on an annual basis – such renewal applications will be considered in the light of progress made in the previous year. Researchers may propose a project plan to be implemented over a three-year grant period, and these longer range plans are encouraged. However, the initial application must include the aims and budget specifically in support of the initial year’s research planned. If you have plans for a three year study, you may include that information in an addendum to the application.

E. Budgets are usually limited to $25,000-$50,000 per grant unless supported by another funding source for a higher amount.