Rare As One (Cycle 3) Request for Applications

January 29, 2024

Rare As One (Cycle 3) Request for Applications is ready, hurry and get applied. The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative is calling for applications from rare disease advocacy organizations for five-year projects to join the Rare As One Network. Grantee organizations will accelerate research within specific disease areas and collaborate on scientific focus (channelopathies, ciliopathies, or inborn errors of metabolism) to develop shared research priorities and proposals.

In its third cycle, the Rare As One initiative invites organizations to participate in the Request for Applications (RFA) for innovative projects advancing the understanding and support of rare diseases. This article covers key details like deadlines, grant benefits, eligibility criteria, required documents, and tips for a successful application.

Deadline

Applicants are urged to note the Rare As One (Cycle 3) RFA deadline, set for February 22, 2024. Timely submission is crucial to be considered for this groundbreaking opportunity.

Goals and Objectives

Rare As One (Cycle 3) aims to empower organizations to make real differences in the lives of those with rare diseases. The program seeks to:

Encourage Collaboration: Foster teamwork among various stakeholders, including patient communities, researchers, and healthcare professionals, to collectively tackle the unique challenges posed by rare diseases.
Drive Innovation: Support projects bringing innovative solutions to the forefront, pushing the boundaries of current knowledge about rare diseases and their effective management.
Amplify Community Voices: Prioritize community needs by emphasizing community-driven approaches, recognizing that those living with rare diseases play a crucial role in shaping research and support initiatives.

Importance of Rare Disease Research

Research on rare diseases is crucial because it has the potential to profoundly impact the lives of patients facing unique health challenges. The significance includes:

Precision Medicine Advancements: Insights from rare disease research contribute to developing precision medicine, tailoring treatments to individual genetic and molecular characteristics.
Improved Diagnostics and Therapeutics: Research in this field enhances diagnostic capabilities and develops targeted therapeutics, offering hope to patients with limited or no treatment options.
Empowering Patient Communities: Rare disease research empowers patients and their communities by providing a better understanding of their conditions, fostering a sense of community, and advocating for improved healthcare policies.

Grant Amount

Organizations will receive a total of $800,000 over five years, including up to 15% for indirect costs. The distribution is as follows: Year 1 – $100,000, Years 2-4 – $200,000 each year, and Year 5 – $100,000. Indirect costs should not exceed 15% of direct costs. The award period will span five years, commencing on October 1, 2024.

Eligibility Criteria

The Rare As One (Cycle 3) initiative invites a variety of organizations dedicated to benefiting rare disease communities to apply. Eligibility includes:

Patient Advocacy Groups: Organizations advocating for those impacted by rare diseases.
Research Institutions: Academic or research institutions conducting innovative research on rare diseases.
Healthcare Organizations: Entities dedicated to providing healthcare services for individuals with rare diseases.
Community-Based Organizations: Grassroots organizations actively supporting and uplifting rare disease communities.

Prioritization Criteria

While each application undergoes a comprehensive review, the following criteria will prioritize applications:

Governance and Community Representation: Patient-centered approach and representation of the population served. Diversity and capacity of the organization’s leadership. Activities reaching and serving patients, families, and communities of colour.
Leadership Team Capacity: Ability of the leadership team to develop and expand a patient-led research network. Motivation, commitment, experiences, and capability of the Patient Organization Lead and key decision-makers.
Organization’s Potential Benefit: Potential benefits from funding, and organizational and scientific capacity-building support. Opportunity to participate in the Rare As One Network, considering strengths, needs, and collaborative orientation.
Research Community Impact: Current state of the research community and how patient-led collaborative research can foster inclusivity and accelerate progress in the disease area.
Need for Patient Leadership: Importance and potential impact of expanded patient leadership. The ability of the patient organization to meaningfully incorporate the patient’s voice to advance scientific progress in the disease area.

Application Process

To apply for the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative’s Rare As One (Cycle 3) funding, follow these steps:

Review Eligibility: Ensure your organization aligns with the eligibility criteria mentioned on the official website.
Prepare Your Application: Gather all required information and documents outlined in the application guidelines.
Visit the Official Website: Go to the official Chan Zuckerberg Initiative website at [(https://cziscience.org/).
Navigate to Rare As One (Cycle 3): Locate the Rare As One (Cycle 3) funding section on the website.
Read Guidelines: Carefully review the application guidelines, ensuring compliance with all requirements.
Access Application Portal: If available, access the official application portal through the provided link on the website.
Submit Your Application: Complete the online application form, providing accurate and detailed information.
Check Deadline: Be mindful of the application deadline and submit your application before the specified date.
Monitor Communication: Keep an eye on your provided contact details for any communication from the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative.

Documentation and Requirements

Applicants must submit a well-prepared proposal that includes:

Project Overview: Clearly articulate the project’s goals, objectives, and anticipated impact on rare disease communities.
Budget Details: Provide a detailed budget outlining how grant funds will be allocated across project components.
Timeline: Develop a realistic project timeline, highlighting key milestones and the overall project duration.
Organizational Information: Include essential details about your organization, emphasizing relevant experience and capabilities.
Partnership Agreements: If applicable, provide documentation confirming partnerships and define the roles and responsibilities of each partner.

Tips for Successful Applications

Align with Rare As One Objectives: Ensure that your proposal aligns closely with the Rare As One initiative’s goals and objectives.
Community-Centric Approach: Demonstrate genuine community engagement and involvement in the project’s development and implementation.
Innovative Solutions: Emphasize innovative strategies that address unique challenges faced by rare disease communities.
Clear and Concise Proposal: Present your proposal with clarity and conciseness, ensuring all key components are well-articulated.
Impactful and Sustainable: Showcase how your project’s impact can extend beyond the grant period, contributing to the long-term well-being of rare disease communities.

Conclusion:

The Rare As One (Cycle 3) Application offers a chance for organizations dedicated to tackling the distinct challenges of rare diseases. By following the guidelines, meeting eligibility criteria, and using the provided tips, applicants can increase their chances of getting support for impactful initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are proposals assessed for Rare As One (Cycle 3)?

Proposals are typically reviewed based on their alignment with the program’s objectives, the level of engagement with the community, innovation, and clarity. Detailed evaluation criteria are specified in the program guidelines.

Why is community engagement essential in proposals?

Community engagement is fundamental as it ensures that proposed initiatives are guided by the needs and perspectives of rare disease communities. This contributes significantly to the overall success and sustainability of the projects.

Can I include additional supporting materials with my application?

you can enhance your application by including extra supporting materials such as letters of support or partnership agreements. Ensure these materials align with the provided guidelines.

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