ALS/MND affects people in every part of the world. Yet many regions remain significantly under-represented in ALS/MND research — not because the need is less, but because the foundational infrastructure for research participation is still developing.
The SEED (Supporting Excellence, Equity, and Discovery for ALS/MND) Grant Program was created to help change that.
About SEED
SEED provides early-stage funding to support efforts that strengthen ALS/MND research infrastructure and readiness in low-income, lower-middle-income, and upper-middle-income countries, based on World Bank country income classifications. The program is made possible through founding support from FightMND and ALS Canada, with growing support from across the global ALS/MND community.
Eligible projects focus on practical steps that create, connect, or strengthen the people, systems, partnerships, data pathways, and infrastructure needed for ALS/MND research. These efforts may help local or regional teams prepare for work in one or more areas, including ALS/MND registries, biobanking preparation, data collection pathways, genetic and epidemiological studies, clinical trial readiness, or locally relevant pilot work.
The goal is to support local leaders, institutions, and networks as they build the foundations needed for future ALS/MND research, collaboration, and larger-scale funding.
Who Can Apply
SEED is open to:
- Researchers
- Clinicians
- Academic institutions
- Hospitals and clinics
- Research networks
- Multi-site collaborations
- Regional partnerships
Applications may be submitted by individual organizations or collaborative groups.
Collaborations with high-income countries are welcome when they strengthen research readiness, leadership, ownership, and benefit within an eligible country.
How to Apply
Applications open June 21, 2026, and close September 1, 2026. Applications must be submitted through the SEED Application Portal.
Recipients will be announced at the Alliance Meeting on December 5-6, 2026 in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Funding Available
Applicants may request up to US$50,000. The total number of awards will depend on available funding and the size of the selected proposals.
The maximum award amount is inclusive of all costs, including direct costs, indirect costs, institutional overheads, and any applicable taxes or fees. Indirect costs, including institutional overheads, may not exceed 5% of the total budget requested.
Applicants do not need to request the maximum amount. Smaller, focused proposals may be appropriate if the project has a clear purpose, a realistic plan, and a measurable outcome.
Questions
Please review the Frequently Asked Questions (coming soon) before reaching out.
For questions about eligibility, project fit, application requirements, or budget preparation, contact seed@als-mnd.org.