UCP opens 2026 Cerebral Palsy research grants

United Cerebral Palsy has launched its 2026 “Change is Possible for CP” Research Grant Program, opening a new funding cycle for researchers across the U.S. and Canada. The program invites proposals that focus on improving early diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation for cerebral palsy and related neurodevelopmental disabilities. The research grant initiative is positioned to support work intended to move beyond the lab and into real-world impact for individuals with cerebral palsy and their families.

Key dates and application timeline

The 2026 program has a defined submission schedule, beginning in January and extending through later grant announcements in 2026. Key dates include:

• Application opens: January 12, 2026

• Letters of Intent due: February 13, 2026

• Full proposals invited in spring 2026

• Awards announced later in 2026

United Cerebral Palsy’s structure reflects a staged process, with Letters of Intent preceding the invitation for full proposals.

Grant types and funding amounts

United Cerebral Palsy is offering two grant types under the 2026 “Change is Possible for CP” Research Grant Program, with both categories funded at the same level. Grant types include:

• Pilot Grants: $20,000 to support preliminary data or new analyses

• Extension Grants: $20,000 to expand existing research projects

By supporting both early-stage exploration and expansion of existing projects, the program is designed to fund a range of research efforts within a consistent award size.

Research priorities for 2026

The 2026 program identifies several research priorities intended to advance care and outcomes in cerebral palsy and related neurodevelopmental disabilities. These priorities include:

• Early diagnosis and intervention

• Translational and clinical research

• Collaboration with United Cerebral Palsy affiliates

Across these priority areas, the program’s stated aim is to accelerate work that can inform practical improvements in diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation, with an emphasis on real-world impact.