Innovative Research Program

Geographic Scope: United States and international

Focus Areas:

• Prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of brain injuries occurring primarily in sports-related activities
• Brain injury seminars, symposiums, and publications
• Research on traumatic brain injury (TBI), concussions, and related conditions
• Biomarker development and identification
• Neuroimaging and imaging biomarkers
• Neuroprotection and treatment modalities
• Spinal cord injury research

Eligibility:

• Only 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations as designated by the IRS
• Fiscal sponsors (nonprofits providing fiduciary oversight and administrative services) are acceptable
• Research institutions and universities

What They Fund:

• Early-stage, innovative research projects
• Clinical and basic science research
• Projects addressing brain injuries from sports-related activities
• Collaborative, multisite studies

Background:
The Chuck Noll Foundation for Brain Injury Research was established in December 2016 through an initial grant from the Pittsburgh Steelers. Named after Chuck Noll, the legendary Pittsburgh Steelers coach (23-year career, Pro Football Hall of Fame 1993), the foundation was inspired by Noll's commitment to player well-being, which led to development of the ImPACT test (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) now used internationally.

Contact:

• Address: 3400 South Water Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15203
• Email: ahavrilla@chucknollfoundation.org
• Website: www.chucknollfoundation.org

Grant History:
As of 2023, the foundation has awarded $3.2 million in grants across 24 projects, which has leveraged over $15 million in additional research funding. The 2023 grant cycle (fifth annual) received the largest number of proposals from across the country and internationally.