Innovative, Developmental, Exploratory Awards (IDEA)

Purpose of Initiative

IDEA research awards provide funds for pilot studies that are innovative and have a potential for high pay-off within the grant period, or those that apply novel methods and approaches or challenge existing paradigms in HIV/AIDS research. IDEAs are intended for investigators in a variety of HIV/AIDS related disciplines, including biomedical, physical, social/behavioral, epidemiological, and clinical sciences, and health services and prevention research areas. Both new, and more experienced investigators, who want to test new ideas and/or approaches, are encouraged to apply.

The awards provide a maximum total of $160,000 or $200,000 in direct costs, regardless of project duration, for a flexible period of up to 24 months. The awards are not renewable. The applicant must have principal investigator status at a non-profit institution in California.