Overview

ALS Finding a Cure^® (ALSFAC) invites proposals for research aimed at defining the biological mechanisms that determine why ALS develops in some individuals but not others. This initiative will support mechanistic studies that investigate determinants of motor neuron vulnerability, pathways that confer resistance to neurodegeneration, and biological events that initiate ALS prior to clinical symptom onset. Projects may include laboratory-based, computational, and human-focused research using model systems, biospecimens, datasets, or clinical populations.

Background and Rationale

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative disease with no cure and limited therapeutic options. Despite advances in genetics, molecular biology, and therapeutic development, the earliest biological events that determine disease onset remain poorly understood. Why do some individuals develop ALS while others—despite similar genetic or environmental exposures—do not? Understanding the biological mechanisms that sustain resilience—and those that drive vulnerability—represents a critical frontier in ALS research and may reveal new therapeutic targets and earlier intervention opportunities.

Scope of the RFP

ALSFAC invites proposals addressing motor neuron vulnerability, biological resilience, and early disease initiation.

Eligibility

Open to investigators at academic, clinical, and research institutions worldwide. Applicants at all career stages are eligible. Cross-institutional and multidisciplinary teams are encouraged.

Funding and Award Information

Number of Awards: Up to 3
Funding Amount: Up to $400,000 USD total per award
Grant Duration: Up to 2 years
Indirect Costs: Maximum of 15%
Milestone-driven progress will be expected.

Application Process and Timeline

This funding opportunity will use a two-stage application process consisting of a Letter of Intent (LOI) followed by invited full proposals.

Stage 1 — Letter of Intent (LOI)

LOI Requirements:

• 1–2 page concept description (Title, brief overview, expected outcomes)
• Investigative team and institutional affiliations
• Biosketches for key personnel

Stage 2 — Invited Full Proposal

Selected applicants will be invited to submit full proposals approximately five weeks after notification of results of LOI review.

Full Application Requirements:

• Cover letter
• Project Plan
• Background
• Timeline
• Investigator CVs
• Financial Disclosure Form

Anticipated Award Timeline

Timeline:

• Initial Letter of Interest (LOI) Submission Due: Monday, March 30, 2026
• Notification of LOI Submission: May 2026
• Full Proposal Deadline: June 2026 (5 weeks after invitation)
• Award Decisions: Summer 2026
• Project Start Date: October 1, 2026

Review Criteria

• Scientific innovation and originality
• Relevance to ALS susceptibility, resilience, and disease initiation
• Potential to advance understanding of ALS onset biology
• Translational potential • Strength and complementarity of investigative team
• Feasibility and rigor of approach
• Milestones and execution plan

ALSFAC is particularly interested in high-risk, high-reward ideas capable of shifting current paradigms.

Submitting an LOI

Please submit a completed LOI with contact information to: https://app.box.com/f/0f7d5b108a5d4921a4f789ae37378e8c

Contact

Questions may be directed to: info@alsfac.org