What are the differences between “Category 1” and “Category 2” in the BPS PFA?

The BPS PFA will offer two categories for award size, with targeted funding allotments for each to promote a balance of smaller and larger studies within the funded portfolio.  

One study category (Category 1) will include studies with direct costs up to and including $5 million. Category 1 applications must address one of four national priority areas for research: Addressing Disparities; Assessment of Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options; Improving Healthcare Systems; and Communication and Dissemination Research.   

The other (Category 2) will permit awards requesting direct costs greater than $5 million, up to a maximum of $10 million. Category 2 applications must address one of three national priority areas for research: Addressing Disparities; Assessment of Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options; and Improving Healthcare Systems.  Category 2 applications, those proposing direct costs between $5 million and $10 million total, will be expected to justify the size and scope of the proposed research and how additional funds are necessary with respect to the scale, scope, and complexity of personnel and material resources needed to address the proposed research question.