StoryFunding
Spending law gives the BRAIN Initiative $429M for FY2026, a 33% rise after two years of cuts
The Consolidated Appropriations Act, signed on 3 February 2026, sets the BRAIN Initiative's FY2026 budget at $429M, about a third more than in 2025. Researchers warned that NIH's approach to funding multiyear grants could still limit how many new awards are made. Total NIH funding rose slightly to $47.2B.
- $429M total: $195M from the Cures Act, $230M NIH base, plus $4M extra.
- Follows a 40% cut in FY2024 and a further cut in FY2025.
- NIH total set at $47.2B, up $415M; NINDS up to $2.8B, NIMH down to $2.19B.
- Cures Act funding for BRAIN ends after FY2026.