Catalyst Award

Overview

We believe in the power of a great idea. That’s why we created our Catalyst Award. As part of our commitment to investing in innovative research we’re looking for bold, early-stage ideas needing the funding to hit the ground running. Awards available are a maximum of £100k for up to 12 months.

Scope

We created the Catalyst Awards for the challengers and the risk-takers. If you’re driven to find new approaches that will accelerate translational research in MND, then we want to hear from you.

We’re passionate about supporting projects that will gather the evidence to bring new and potentially high-risk ideas to life. For successful applicants, this is more than just a grant. It’s a launchpad to generate the vital data needed to unlock further investment opportunities.

Catalyst Award applications must align with one or more of the priorities outlined in our research strategy; Catalysing a Cure. We therefore strongly encourage you to get in touch with us to discuss your ideas before submitting an application. Please email research@myname5doddie.co.uk.

When applying, make sure you clearly explain how your project will deliver a new dataset or test a fresh hypothesis within 12 months, as well as its potential to open up a novel research avenue. Ensure you also identify a plan for follow-on funding if your Catalyst project is a success.

Application process and timeline

2026 applications are now closed. Key dates will be posted here when the 2027 awards are announced.

For existing applicants, key dates are:

• May 2026: Anticipated Award decision
• Autumn 2026: Anticipated start date of successful projects

Find out more about our review processes and research policies here.

Previous success rate

In 2023, we received nine applications and awarded funding to three projects.

In 2024, we received nine applications and awarded funding to four projects.

In 2026, we received 50 applications and awarded funding to five projects.

Assessment criteria

Applications will be assessed by our independent Research Review Committee according to the following criteria:

• Level of scientific innovation
• Potential to open a novel avenue of MND research
• For high-risk projects, appropriate plans are built in to mitigate unnecessary risks e.g. clear decision points with pre-agreed criteria, input from experts who may not be directly involved in the project, etc.
• Alignment to the Foundation's research strategy and potential of the project to lead to follow-on research that will translate into the clinic and positively impact people living with MND
• Ability of the project to create a solid preliminary data package within a one-year timeframe
• Suitability of the applicant(s) to carry out the research
• If animal use is proposed and justified, the appropriateness of the number of animals and chosen models
• Justification of funds requested and feasibility of the approach within the proposed budget and timescale.

All information provided in the application form will be treated with confidentiality. Please see our Application Terms and Conditions for further information.

Previously funded projects