Sponsor

Morris Animal Foundation

For More Information

Full eligibility, program details and templates are available on the Foundation’s Grants page [1].  

Description

Morris Animal Foundation has issued a call for research proposals to improve the health and welfare of domesticated horses, ponies, donkeys and mules. This opportunity includes four award categories — Established Investigator, First Award, Pilot Study and Fellowship Training — each designed to support impactful, humane, and scientifically robust equid health research.  

AWARD CATEGORIES  

• Established Investigator Awards
  • Designed for experienced researchers with a strong publication history in equine health science. Projects may last up to 36 months.  
  • No budget cap (average funding ~$100,000); proposals must include robust methodology and demonstrate clear benefits to equid health.  
• First Award Grants  
  • Supports early-career researchers (PhD, DVM, or equivalent) establishing independent programs in veterinary or animal science.  
  • Up to $120,000 over 24 months; not eligible for residents. Postdocs must be moving into secured roles.  
• Pilot Study Awards  
  • Funds 12-month exploratory research or proof-of-concept studies in horse, donkey, mule, or pony health.  
  • Budget capped at $20,000; preliminary data is optional but strengthens competitiveness.  
• Fellowship Training Grants  
  • For postdoctoral researchers or advanced PhD candidates focused on equid health and welfare.  
  • Offers up to $145,000 over 24 months; requires a formal training plan and institutional support.  

Eligibility

See proposal guidelines for specific eligibility as each program has slightly different eligibility requirements: 

• Fellowship Training: 
  • Proposal Guidelines [2]
  • Proposal Template [3]
  • Rubric [4]
• Established Investigator, First Award, Pilot Study: 
  • Proposal Guidelines [5]
  • Proposal Template [6]
  • Rubric [7]

Indirect Costs

8%