2026 Cornea Research Grant Application

The Cornea Research Foundation of America (CRFA) is a non-profit research institution dedicated to helping give people back the use of their eyes. Led by pioneering eye surgeon Francis W. Price, Jr., MD. and in partnership with Price Vision Group, a world-renowned eye care center based in Indianapolis, Indiana, CRFA conducts cutting-edge research and offers advanced treatment options. CRFA's collaborations extend beyond Price Vision Group to research institutions worldwide. These collaborations allow for the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and resources, fostering innovation and accelerating advancements in corneal and refractive surgery. By partnering with research institutions globally, CRFA and the Price Vision Group leverage diverse perspectives, talent, and resources, leading to significant breakthroughs in the treatment of corneal diseases. This global network enhances their ability to conduct collaborative studies, ultimately benefiting patients worldwide. Some key accomplishments include pioneering techniques in DMEK cornea transplants, developing innovative treatments for conditions like keratoconus, and training future generations of eye care professionals in the latest surgical techniques. We are working towards a future where we hope to prevent the need for cornea transplants; a future where glaucoma doesn't steal sight; and, a future such that all who look may see.® Learn more at Cornea.org.

The purpose of CRFA grant funding is to support innovative research that advances the understanding, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of corneal disease and improves patient care up to $10,000 per calendar year.

The deadline for submissions is August 15, 2026.

Grant recipients will be notified by October 1, 2026. Research awards are designated for a one-year interval (1/1/2027-12/31/2027).

U.S. based physicians (corneal surgeons and eye care specialists) and basic scientists (biomedical and social scientists). OTHERS ELIGIBLE WITH SUPERVISION: Eye bank technicians, nurses, postgraduate fellows, ophthalmology residents, and medical students (supervised by a physician or scientist associated with an eye bank or academic institution).

CRFA's funding is supported by generous donors and sponsors and is targeted toward pilot projects, well-defined short-term protocols, and studies directed toward new research initiatives. Promising multi-year research projects may also be considered.

Recipient funding is awarded to the institution, with the Principal Investigator responsible for the scientific direction, reporting, and oversight of the proposed research. Any significant project changes must be submitted to CRFA for approval.

Applications must be complete to be considered. The maximum grant request is $10,000. Grant payments are made in two payments ($7,500 at start and $2,500 upon receipt of final grant report).

Two brief online reports and financial accounting of expenses are required by June 30, 2027 and January 31, 2028. Unexpended and unobligated funds remaining after 12/31/2027 should be returned to CRFA. Extensions may be requested with valid delay in project start. Requests will be reviewed by grant committee for consideration. Renewal applications may be accepted for multi-year projects exceeding the funding period.

Applications will be reviewed by a committee composed of clinicians, researchers, and others with expertise relevant to corneal disease, vision research or program administration. Any reviewer with an actual, potential, or perceived conflict of interest concerning an applicant or proposed project must disclose the conflict and will be recused from the review and scoring process of that application. Reviewers will evaluate proposals based on scientific merit, innovation, feasibility, use of funds, investigator qualifications, and translation to patient care now or in the future.

The grant application was designed to be intentionally concise and should be able to be completed quickly for those with well-defined projects. Researchers unsure whether a project aligns with CRFA priorities may submit a brief project summary for informal feedback prior to completing this application to grants@cornea.org.