Limited Submission Opportunity: NEXT for AUTISM 2025 Autistic-Led and Community-Based Grants

Applications due June 24

These instructions are for VU investigators. VUMC investigators should contact LSO@vanderbilt.edu for more information.

Vanderbilt University may submit only one proposal to the NEXT for AUTISM Autistic-Led and Community-Based Grants.

Overview

NEXT for AUTISM's grants program supports initiatives that empower autistic adults to lead fulfilling and productive lives by identifying and funding innovative programs and services. These initiatives address critical needs and result in the building of real-time service delivery for the autistic adults they support and build stronger communities for lasting change.

To qualify for autistic-led funding, the project must have active and continuous involvement from an autistic employee of the organization. To qualify for community-based funding, organizations must be serving adults with autism in their communities in the areas of work, home, social engagement, or health and well-being. NEXT for AUTISM defines "adult" as being aged 13 and up.

NEXT for AUTISM empowers autistic-led and community-based initiatives to create meaningful change in four focus areas:

• Work: Enhancing employment opportunities for autistic adults.
• Home: Improving living environments for autistic individuals.
• Social Engagement: Fostering connections, friendships, and community integration.
• Health & Well-being: Promoting access to healthcare, mental health support, and wellness resources for autistic individuals.

Award Information

First-time NEXT for AUTISM grantees may apply for up to $10,000, while returning grantees are eligible to request up to $25,000. Overhead and indirect costs can comprise no more than ten percent (10 percent) of the budget.

Internal Submission Instructions

To apply for this opportunity, prepare and submit the following:

• Two-page project description with budget summary
• CV/Biosketch
• Required Letter of Support acknowledging the indirect costs cannot exceed 10 percent of the total budget.

Interested faculty should visit https://vanderbilt.infoready4.com/#freeformCompetitionDetail/1985181 to submit an application for the internal LSO competition and to find additional information about the opportunity. The deadline for the internal competition is June 24, 2025.

Any questions about this opportunity or the LSO process may be directed to VU-LSO@vanderbilt.edu.