The R03 grant mechanism will support small research projects that can be carried out in a short period of time with limited resources. The NIH has standardized the Small Grant (R03) application characteristics, requirements, preparation, and review procedures in order to accommodate investigator-initiated (unsolicited) applications.

The R03 Parent Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) for investigator-initiated R03 applications can be found at PA-16-162 and articulates the policies and procedures that apply to this grant mechanism.