HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania researchers can now apply for $5 million in state funding aimed at advancing treatments and potential cures for neurodegenerative diseases affecting hundreds of thousands of residents.
What This Means for You
- Research funding is available for Alzheimer’s, ALS, Parkinson’s, and related diseases
- Applications are open through April 23, 2026
- Additional funding could bring the total to $10 million over two years
The Shapiro Administration opened the application period for grants funded through the 2025–26 state budget to support scientific research into neurodegenerative diseases—conditions that progressively damage the brain and nervous system, affecting memory, movement, and daily function.
The funding is intended for research organizations working on new treatments and potential cures for diseases such as Alzheimer’s, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Parkinson’s disease.
Scope of the Challenge
State officials said more than 300,000 Pennsylvanians and their caregivers are affected by these conditions.
That includes more than 280,000 residents over age 65 living with Alzheimer’s, more than 1,000 with ALS, and over 46,000 diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
“These diseases rob people of memory, mobility, independence, and time with the people they love,” Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen said.
Funding and Future Plans
Governor Josh Shapiro secured the initial $5 million allocation in the current state budget.
His proposed 2026–27 budget includes an additional $5 million for similar research efforts, which would bring the total investment to $10 million over two years if approved.
Officials said the funding is part of a broader effort to strengthen Pennsylvania’s research capacity and support collaboration among academic institutions and health organizations.
“Strengthening Pennsylvania’s research infrastructure is a critical part of our response to Alzheimer’s, dementia, and related disorders,” Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich said.
Research and Advocacy Response
Advocacy groups and research organizations said the funding could accelerate progress in developing treatments.
“This investment is a meaningful step toward advancing scientific discovery, improving patient outcomes and bringing us closer to better treatments — and ultimately a cure — for Parkinson’s disease and related disorders,” said Zach Hardy of The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
Tony Heyl of ALS United Mid-Atlantic said the funding reflects growing attention to diseases that affect thousands of families across the state.
How to Apply
Applications for the funding are open through April 23, 2026.
Details and submission information are available at https://www.emarketplace.state.pa.us/Solicitations.aspx?SID=RFA%2067-208.
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