FDA opens FY2027 MUMS grant applications for animal drug studies

FDA has opened the first fiscal 2027 application window for its Minor Use and Minor Species, or MUMS, grant program, giving eligible sponsors and research partners a new chance to fund studies that could move niche veterinary drugs toward approval or conditional approval. The FDA said applications are now open for designated MUMS drugs aimed at uncommon diseases in major species, including dogs, cats, horses, cattle, pigs, turkeys, and chickens, as well as drugs for minor species. Awards can reach $250,000 per year, with support available for up to two years for routine safety, effectiveness, and some manufacturing studies, and up to three years for toxicology work. FDA said the optional letter of intent is due June 19, 2026, and full applications are due July 24, 2026. (fda.gov)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals, this is one of the few federal funding mechanisms specifically designed to help products for small or underserved animal populations get closer to market. FDA says the MUMS framework was created because limited-market products often struggle to attract commercial investment, and the agency’s grant program has already provided $8.4 million across 72 studies. That matters in practice because gaps in approved therapies are often most visible in minor species, uncommon indications, aquaculture, and some food animal settings, where clinicians may have fewer labeled options and more pressure to balance access, stewardship, and compliance. It also fits into a broader CVM grant push: the agency recently opened FY 2026 applications for Animal and Veterinary Innovation Centers focused on aquaculture, minor ruminants, human food safety for minor species drugs, and antimicrobial stewardship. (fda.gov; fda.gov)

What to watch: FDA’s materials indicate there are two application periods per fiscal year, so the next checkpoint after this summer’s deadline is likely the second FY 2027 window, scheduled for November 27, 2026, through January 29, 2027. Separately, CVM’s AVIC program may offer another signal about where the agency sees the biggest veterinary drug development gaps, especially in aquaculture, minor ruminants, food safety, and antimicrobial use. (fda.gov; fda.gov)