Accelerating the development of targeted neuromodulation therapies
The first phase called on scientists, engineers, and clinicians to submit novel concepts and plans for development.
About the competition
The Neuromod Prize is a SPARC (Stimulating Peripheral Activity to Relieve Conditions) initiative from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Common Fund. The competition seeks groundbreaking uses of peripheral nerve stimulation that can independently regulate two or more desired autonomic functions without unintended effects on non-target organs. At the discretion of NIH, additional competition phases may follow Phase 1.
CURRENT
Phase 1
Open to all eligible participants
Participants submitted concept papers describing their proposed therapeutic approach and plans for conducting proof-of-concept studies. They are competing for a share of the total prize pool.
PLANNED
Phase 2
Open to winners of Phase 1
Up to eight Phase 1 winners will exclusively be invited to develop proof-of-concept studies and compete for a share of the total prize pool.
PLANNED
Phase 3
Open to winners of Phase 2
Up to four Phase 2 winners may subsequently be selected to conduct IDE-enabling studies and compete for a share of the total prize pool.
Phase 1 prize
A judging panel will select up to eight winners according to official Phase 1 judging criteria. Phase 1 winners will receive a share of the Phase 1 prize pool (up to $800,000) and the opportunity to participate in a planned Phase 2.
With $9.8 million total prize pool planned across three phases
Phase 1 timeline
Phase 1 was open to all eligible participants — including scientists, engineers, and clinicians — to submit novel concepts and plans for development.
Submission period
Virtual information session
Technical considerations panel
Submission deadline
Judging
Phase 1 winner announcement
Phase 2 launch