Grant Opportunity: Conference Support for Rare Neurodevelopmental Disorder Communities Participating In Simons Searchlight

SFARI (Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative) is again offering funding for Patient Advocacy Group (PAG) family conferences within the Simons Searchlight community. Funding tiers of $2,500, $7,500, and $15,000 are available to support scientific presentations and in-person research opportunities.

Whether your group is new to organizing conferences or has years of experience, this funding can help bring valuable scientific discussions to your community.

Funding Details:

• Name of RFA: “Conference Support for Rare Neurodevelopmental Disorder Communities Participating In Simons Searchlight”
• Three funding tiers available: $2,500, $7,500, and $15,000, based on the level of scientific involvement planned.
• Eligibility: 
  • Open to both established and emerging PAGs. 
  • Conferences must be scheduled between January 2026 and February 2027. 
  • Applicants should be patient advocacy groups (PAGs) for Simons Searchlight Gene/CNV groups who use Simons Searchlight as their major registry. 
    • Preference is given to those communities actively supporting Simons Searchlight recruitment and ongoing engagement within their communities.
• Application Timeline: Applications open on November 7, 2025, and close on March 5, 2026.
• Informational Pre-Recorded Webinar: The SFARI science team held an informational webinar in 2025 and interested applicants can watch the recording.

Learn More and Apply

To learn more about the funding levels, full eligibility criteria, and how to apply, please visit SFARI’s website. Be sure to review the “How to Apply” instructions and FAQs for detailed guidance.

Simons Searchlight does not manage this grant. Please direct all inquiries to sfarigrants@simonsfoundation.org.