NIH Research Supplements to Promote Diversity
The NIH Research Supplements to Promote Diversity program provides supplemental funding to support researchers and trainees from underrepresented backgrounds in biomedical and behavioral research. Rather than functioning as a stand-alone grant mechanism, the program operates through an existing NIH-funded research project. A principal investigator holding an active NIH award may request a supplement to add an eligible candidate to the project, with funding directed toward the candidate's salary and research-related expenses.
Eligibility for this program depends on two key factors: the candidate's demographic background and membership in an underrepresented group in science, as defined by the NIH, and the status of the host research project itself. The principal investigator's existing grant must be active and meet program requirements. Applications are submitted through official NIH channels without any fee, and awards are competitive, with review conducted by the relevant NIH institute or center.
Candidates interested in this opportunity should work directly with an established research principal investigator who holds current NIH funding and wishes to support their participation. The application process requires institutional support and moves through standard NIH review procedures. While the program represents a meaningful pathway for underrepresented scientists to access research funding and training, prospective applicants should understand that award decisions are selective and based on the scientific merit of both the supplement request and the candidate's qualifications.
Avoid grant scams
Legitimate grants are free to apply for. Walk away from anyone who:
- guarantees you a grant, or says you were 'selected' for money you never applied for;
- charges an upfront 'processing', 'application', or 'grant kit' fee;
- asks for your bank-account or card number to 'deposit' a grant;
- pressures you to act immediately.
Verify any program directly at its official .gov site, and report fraud at reportfraud.ftc.gov. More on our grant-scam awareness page.
Official sources: NIH — Research Supplements to Promote Diversity in Health-Related Research. This page is educational information, not financial or legal advice; grants are competitive and never guaranteed. See our sources & how-we-work policy.
Frequently asked questions
Who qualifies for nih research supplements to promote diversity?
Researchers and trainees from groups underrepresented in biomedical research who work on an existing NIH-funded grant; this includes women in fields where they are underrepresented, among other groups..
Does nih research supplements to promote diversity have to be repaid?
This is grant funding (not repaid). Grants generally do not have to be repaid, but they are competitive and eligibility-bound.
Is there a fee to apply?
No. Applying for legitimate funding is free. Anyone charging a fee to 'get you a grant' is a scam — see our scam-awareness page.
How do I apply for nih research supplements to promote diversity?
Work with a principal investigator holding an eligible NIH grant; the PI applies through the funding institute.
More in Research & professional
Not sure which funding fits?
Compare grants, scholarships, assistance, and loans side by side, or use the finder to narrow down by your situation.
Open the funding finder →