Research Grants
Advancing Research - Developing Leaders - Improving Child Health
Research Grant Program Overview
The Gerber Foundation supports innovative pediatric research that improves the health and well-being of infants and children. Through its research programs, the Foundation invests in scientific discovery, clinical advancement, and the development of future leaders in child health research.
The Foundation recognizes that meaningful impact extends beyond individual studies. Research funding can launch careers, foster collaboration, advance clinical practice, and ultimately improve outcomes for children and families.
We offer two research award programs:
- The Gerber Foundation Emerging Investigator Award
- The Gerber Foundation Pediatric Research Award
Together, these programs support investigators across the research career continuum while maintaining a special commitment to developing the next generation of child health researchers.
Research Grant Focus Areas
Pediatric Health - Pediatric Nutrition - Environmental Hazards
The Foundation’s mission focuses on infants and children. Accordingly, priority is given to projects that improve the nutrition, care, and development of infants and children from pre-birth to three years of age.
The Foundation is particularly interested in fresh approaches to solving common, everyday problems or emerging issues within our defined focus areas. Projects should focus on issues faced by care providers that, when implemented, will improve the health, nutrition and/or developmental outcomes for infants and young children. The Board is particularly looking for practical solutions that can be easily and rapidly implemented on a broad scale with a predictable time frame to clinical application.
Note that the Foundation is looking for projects that will result in ‘new’ information, treatments or tools that will result in a change in practice. The Board rarely funds projects that are focused on sharing current information with parents or caregivers (parent or provider educational programs).
Target Outcomes
- Improved diagnostic tools and approaches that are faster, more accurate, less invasive, or more clinically useful.
- New or improved treatments and interventions that are more effective, targeted, appropriately dosed, less painful or stressful, or associated with fewer adverse effects.
- Improved symptom management and quality of care for infants and young children.
- Prevention and early intervention strategies that reduce the risk, incidence, or severity of illness or adverse outcomes.
- Improved assessment of nutritional, metabolic, or medication-related needs, including deficiencies, excesses, and optimal dosing.
- Better identification and assessment of risk, including clinical, environmental, developmental, or other factors affecting infant and child health.
-
Evidence that informs clinical practice, including approaches that improve care delivery, decision making, or implementation of effective interventions.
Developing the Next Generation of Child Health Researchers
The Gerber Foundation believes that impactful research extends beyond scientific
discovery. We value projects that contribute to the development of the
pediatric research workforce through mentorship, collaboration, leadership, and
meaningful research experiences.
As part of the application, investigators are encouraged to describe how the proposed project will support career development – whether by advancing their own research trajectory or by providing mentorship, training, and leadership opportunities for students, trainees, junior investigators, or other members of the research team.
Applying for a Research Grant
Organizations recognized as tax-exempt under Internal Revenue Code 501(c)(3) are eligible to apply for Foundation grants. Public governmental institutions such as universities are included in this definition. Organizations must also be determined not to be private foundations under Internal Revenue Code 509. No grants are made to individuals. With few exceptions, only organizations with principal operations in the United States and its territories are eligible for funding. See the FAQ above for grant specifics and limitations.
All applications must be completed through our online system.
Success Rates: The Foundation typically invites 10% of concept paper applicants to submit full proposals, ultimately funding between 35-50% of those full application submissions.
See below for specific information on applying for either award program.
2027 Research Grant Cycle Key Dates
Open for Concept Paper Submission: November 4, 2026
Concept Papers Due: February 10, 2027 4pm ET
Selection Notification: Mid-May 2027
Full Proposals Due: July 14, 2027 4pm ET
Selection Notification: November, 2027
Register for an Informational Webinar
The Gerber Foundation Emerging Investigator Award
Launching the Next Generation of Child Health Researchers
The Gerber Emerging Investigator Award supports promising investigators in the early stages of their research careers. The award provides funding and mentorship opportunities to help emerging researchers conduct a first mentored pediatric research project, generate preliminary data, and build the skills and experience needed for a sustained career in child health research.
The Foundation recognizes that research careers take many forms. Success may include future research funding, scientific publications, clinical leadership, implementation of evidence-based practices, or other contributions that improve the lives of infants and children.
Award Highlights
- Award amount: $50,000
- Supports mentored pediatric research projects
- Open to trainees and early-stage investigators
- Requires mentor and institutional support
- Emphasizes career development and research independence
Program Goals
Goal 1: Develop Future Child Health Researchers
Support investigators in building the skills, experience, and confidence needed to pursue independent research careers.
Goal 2: Advance Early-Stage Research
Enable investigators to generate preliminary data, establish collaborations, and develop competitive future research proposals.
Goal 3: Strengthen the Pediatric Research Workforce
Foster a pipeline of clinician-scientists, researchers, and research leaders dedicated to improving the health and well-being of infants and children.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Research focus: Proposed research must focus on infants and young children from pre-birth through age three and align with the Foundation’s pediatric research priorities.
- US.-based: The applying organization and proposed research must be based in the United States.
- Eligible organization: The applying organization must be recognized as tax-exempt under IRC Section 501(c)(3) and classified as other than a private foundation under IRC Section 509. Eligible public governmental institutions, including universities, may also apply.
- Institutional applicant: Grants are made to eligible organizations, not to individuals.
- Emerging investigator status: The Principal Investigator must be in the early stages of developing an independent research career.
- Prior funding: The Principal Investigator may not have previously received an NIH K- or R-series award (with the exception of a K12 award through an institution)
- Mentorship: The Principal Investigator must have an identified, qualified research mentor who will provide active mentorship throughout the project.
- Project leadership: The Emerging Investigator must serve as the Principal Investigator and have a substantive intellectual and leadership role in the proposed research.
Who Should Apply?
The Gerber Emerging Investigator Award is intended for investigators who:
- Are in the early stages of a pediatric research career.
- Are developing an independent program of research.
- Have limited independent research funding.
- Will benefit from mentorship and pilot funding.
- Demonstrate a commitment to improving child health through research.
Find out more about a Competitive Applicant Profile.
Additional Information
Researchers may contact the Foundation at any time during the application process for assistance or guidance with their submission.
Email research@gerberfoundation.org with questions or set up a time to talk.
Award Process
1. Submit a Concept Paper
The concept paper provides a brief summary of the project, enabling the Foundation to assess how well the proposed research fits with the Foundation’s interests. Papers will be evaluated to determine the relevance of the proposed project to the Foundation’s programs and to provide advice when submitting a full proposal. The concept paper does NOT include scientific references, biosketches, or CV’s. The concept paper should be written in lay terms.
The concept paper provides a brief summary of the project, enabling the Foundation to assess how well the proposed research fits with the Foundation’s interests. Papers will be evaluated to determine the relevance of the proposed project to the Foundation’s programs and to provide advice when submitting a full proposal.
2. Submit a Full Proposal
If the concept paper is accepted, continue with submission of the full proposal using the online application tool. The Full Proposal provides an in depth description of the project, enabling the Foundation to assess the scientific merit and quality of the research. Both lay and medical professionals will review the proposal. Medical jargon should be limited, where feasible.
3. Funding Decision
The Principal Investigator (i.e., the applicant) on the application is notified of project approval or denial via email from the application system. Only proposals that are recommended for funding by the review committee will be considered by the Foundation Board. Recommendations are based on the evaluations of committee members and external expert review. These reviews ensure that proposals considered for funding meet the high standards of quality and effective research sought by the Foundation.
If approved, the project start date will be the later of the IRB approval date or the finalized grant agreement date.
Budget Considerations
- A maximum of $50,000 (inclusive of indirects) per project will be awarded under the Emerging Investigator Award program.
- Indirect costs are limited to no more than 10% of the total direct costs.
- No more than half of the total budget may be applied to salary for the developing researcher (including fringe benefits).
- The remainder of the funds are to be used for research-related expenses, including supplies.
- Conference and Travel: Up to $4,000 may be requested for reasonable conference registration, transportation, lodging, and related travel expenses that support the funded research. Priority should be given to opportunities to present findings from the Gerber Foundation-supported project, and all expenses must be consistent with the applicant’s institution’s travel policies.
The Gerber Foundation Pediatric Research Award
Supporting Innovative Research to Improve Child Health
The Gerber Pediatric Research Award supports high-quality pediatric research with the potential to advance scientific knowledge, improve clinical care, and enhance the health and well-being of infants and children.
The Foundation welcomes applications from investigators across all career stages and encourages research environments that foster mentorship, collaboration, and the development of future leaders in child health research.
Award Highlights
- Awards up to $350,000
- Open to investigators across career stages
- Encourages mentorship and research workforce development
- Emphasizes scientific rigor and potential impact on child health
Program Goals
Goal 1: Advance Child Health Research
Support scientifically rigorous research that addresses important questions affecting infants and children.
Goal 2: Improve Child Health Outcomes
Generate evidence that informs prevention, diagnosis, treatment, or implementation of improved care.
Goal 3: Build Research Capacity
Encourage collaborative research environments that support the development of trainees, junior investigators, and future leaders in pediatric research.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Research focus: Proposed research must focus on infants and young children from pre-birth through age three and align with the Foundation’s pediatric research priorities.
- U.S.-based: The applying organization and proposed research must be based in the United States.
- Eligible organization: The applying organization must be recognized as tax-exempt under IRC Section 501(c)(3) and classified as other than a private foundation under IRC Section 509. Eligible public governmental institutions, including universities, may also apply.
- Institutional applicant: Grants are made to eligible organizations, not to individuals.
- Career stage: Principal Investigators may be at any career stage, including early-, mid-, or senior-career researchers.
- Investigator qualifications: The Principal Investigator must have the appropriate expertise and institutional support to lead and successfully complete the proposed research.
- Project leadership: The Principal Investigator must have a substantive intellectual and leadership role in the proposed research. Other Individuals with significant scientific leadership responsibilities should be appropriately identified as Co-PIs or Co-Investigators.
Who Should Apply?
The Gerber Pediatric Research Award is intended for investigators who:
- Conduct innovative pediatric research with the potential to improve child health.
- Are prepared to lead a high-quality project with strong scientific merit.
- Have the expertise and institutional support to successfully complete the proposed work.
- Seek to advance evidence-based care through scientific discovery or clinical innovation.
- Value collaboration, mentorship, and the development of future child health researchers.
Find out more about a Competitive Applicant Profile.
Additional Information
Researchers may contact the Foundation at any time during the application process for assistance or guidance with their submission.
Email research@gerberfoundation.org with questions or set up a time to talk.
Award Process
1. Submit a Concept Paper
The concept paper provides a brief summary of the project, enabling the Foundation to assess how well the proposed research fits with the Foundation’s interests. Papers will be evaluated to determine the relevance of the proposed project to the Foundation’s programs and to provide advice when submitting a full proposal. The concept paper does NOT include scientific references, biosketches, or CV’s. The concept paper should be written in lay terms.
The concept paper provides a brief summary of the project, enabling the Foundation to assess how well the proposed research fits with the Foundation’s interests. Papers will be evaluated to determine the relevance of the proposed project to the Foundation’s programs and to provide advice when submitting a full proposal.
2. Submit a Full Proposal
If the concept paper is accepted, continue with submission of the full proposal using the online application tool. The Full Proposal provides an in depth description of the project, enabling the Foundation to assess the scientific merit and quality of the research. Both lay and medical professionals will review the proposal. Medical jargon should be limited, where feasible.
3. Funding Decision
The Principal Investigator (i.e., the applicant) on the application is notified of project approval or denial via email from the application system. Only proposals that are recommended for funding by the review committee will be considered by the Foundation Board. Recommendations are based on the evaluations of committee members and external expert review. These reviews ensure that proposals considered for funding meet the high standards of quality and effective research sought by the Foundation.
If approved, the project start date will be the later of the IRB approval date or the finalized grant agreement date.
Budget Considerations
- A maximum of $350,000 (inclusive of indirects) per project will be awarded under the Pediatric Research Award program.
- Research projects may be no longer than 3 years in length.
- The base salary is capped at the current NIH salary cap level. In addition, PI and Co-PI time supported on the grant is limited to no more than 30%.
- The in-direct costs for all research grants are limited to no more than 10% (included in the total amount). In-directs applied to a subcontract may not be duplicated on the full grant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you fund basic science research?
Do you fund projects in which the research will be conducted outside of the United States?
Who reviews full proposals?
Proposals are reviewed by outside expert reviewers, and then a subcommittee assigned to that project. Proposals of high quality are then reviewed by the full board. Wherever possible, the proposal should be geared toward the lay reader.
Are there limitations to the amount of salary support provided by a grant?
Yes, the base salary is capped at the current NIH salary cap level. In addition, PI and Co-PI time supported on the grant is limited to no more than 30%.
Is the Foundation’s standard research grant agreement negotiable, or are the terms fixed?
For all research grants, the Gerber Foundation uses a standard terms of grant agreement. To ensure fairness, consistency, and administrative efficiency for all grantees, the Foundation does not customize or negotiate individual provisions of the standard terms of grant with grantees.
The Foundation is a Michigan based nonprofit corporation that makes grants across the country. It is impractical and costly for it to negotiate these standard terms on a case-by-case basis. Recognizing that some grantees (notably public universities and institutions) may be subject to legal restrictions in their home states, the Foundation has worked extensively with its legal counsel to draft standard terms of grant that protect the Foundation while recognizing that some grantees may be subject to those legal restrictions.
If you would like to review a copy of the grant agreement, email your request to tgf@gerberfoundation.org.
Do you claim Intellectual Property rights?
We do not lay claim to any IP rights in the research we fund.
Do you require participation in open science initiatives?
While we applaud and encourage these activities, we currently do not require them. We do encourage the researcher to preregister the project, share data, and publish in an open source journal.
How is The Gerber Foundation related to Gerber Products Company?
Can our organization submit more than one concept paper at a time?
What are your deadlines?
Concept papers are due in accordance with the application announcement posted on the Pediatric Research tab.
Who reviews concept papers?
Concept papers are reviewed by Foundation Staff and outside expert reviewers, and then a subcommittee of the board. This subcommittee includes lay as well as medical professionals.
How soon after submitting a concept paper will I hear if I have been selected to submit a full proposal?
You should expect to receive word on the outcome of the review in accordance with the application announcement posted on the Pediatric Research> Research Grants> HOW TO APPLY Tab.
If I am selected to submit a full application proposal, when will the full proposal be due?
Full proposals are due in accordance with the application announcement posted on the Research Grants page.
Can I add my grant team members to the application to assist in completing the concept paper and full proposal?
Are there any size and duration limitations to grants?
Awards and time periods vary depending upon the specific project. Research projects may be no longer than 3 years in length. Total grant size should be no more than $350,000.