Ageing is a natural process, but the real challenge is maintaining good health, independence, and quality of life as we grow older. Many people experience age-related diseases, mobility issues, cognitive decline, and social isolation. What if we could extend the number of years people live in good health, not just extend their lifespan?
The National Academy of Medicine (NAM) is tackling this issue with the U.S. NAM Catalyst Award, an initiative designed to support innovative, high-impact ideas that can transform ageing. This competition provides funding and resources to those working on groundbreaking projects aimed at improving physical, mental, and social well-being in ageing populations. Whether in science, medicine, technology, or policy, the award seeks ideas that could challenge conventional wisdom and pave the way for a healthier future.
What is the NAM Catalyst Award?
The Catalyst Award is part of the broader Healthy Longevity Global Competition, which encourages the development of transformative solutions to help people live longer, healthier lives. The NAM will issue up to 15 Catalyst Awards in 2025, each with a $50,000 cash prize.
In addition to funding, awardees will gain exclusive access to further funding opportunities, networking events with global innovators, and professional development resources. Winning an award also brings recognition and visibility, helping recipients scale their ideas and attract additional support.
The award is not just about incremental improvements—it seeks disruptive, high-risk, high-reward ideas that could revolutionise how we approach ageing. Whether the idea is rooted in biology, social sciences, engineering, or data science, it must ultimately contribute to enhancing health and well-being as people age.
Who Can Apply?
The NAM Catalyst Award is open to individuals or teams based in the U.S., regardless of their field or affiliation. Applicants can come from universities, research institutions, startups, nonprofits, government labs, or even independent backgrounds.
The competition strongly encourages diverse perspectives, including applicants from underrepresented backgrounds and those working on ideas that promote health equity and combat ageism.
Organisations applying must be U.S.-based, and for-profit companies cannot have more than $10 million in annual revenue for the past two years. There are no limits on the number of applications an organisation can submit, but individuals can only be listed as a Principal Investigator (PI) on one application per cycle.
What Kind of Ideas Are Eligible?
NAM is seeking bold, innovative ideas that challenge conventional thinking and offer new solutions to the challenges of ageing. Projects should focus on improving health, mobility, cognitive function, social engagement, or overall well-being.
Examples of Eligible Topics:
- Behavioral health: Ideas that promote mental well-being, social connectedness, and community engagement.
- Biology of ageing: Research exploring cellular and molecular mechanisms that influence ageing.
- Technology & AI: Solutions that use artificial intelligence, robotics, telehealth, or assistive devices to improve ageing experiences.
- Disease prevention: New approaches to detecting and preventing chronic illnesses linked to ageing.
- Housing & urban planning: Smart housing solutions, intergenerational living models, and ageing-friendly urban designs.
- Healthcare delivery: Innovations in elder care, remote monitoring, and making healthcare more accessible.
- Policy & public health: Strategies to reduce health disparities, promote equity, and address ageism.
What is NOT Eligible?
The NAM does not fund:
- Existing programs or slightly modified versions of them.
- Public awareness campaigns or advocacy efforts.
- Commercial products that are already available on the market.
Instead, NAM wants fresh, out-of-the-box thinking—something that could reshape how society approaches ageing in a fundamental way.
Why This Matters
The world's population is ageing at an unprecedented rate. By 2050, more than 1.5 billion people will be over 65 years old. This demographic shift presents challenges, including increased healthcare costs, higher rates of chronic diseases, and the need for better support systems.
At the same time, ageing should not mean declining health or loss of independence. With the right innovations, people can enjoy longer, healthier lives filled with meaning and purpose.
The NAM Catalyst Award is an investment in groundbreaking ideas that could help reshape the ageing experience. Whether it’s through medical breakthroughs, technology-driven solutions, or policy changes, these ideas have the potential to change lives.
How to Apply
The application process for the 2025 NAM Catalyst Award is straightforward but competitive.
Key Dates:
- January 21, 2025: Applications open.
- March 4, 2025: Deadline for submissions.
- Fall 2025: Winners announced.
- Fall 2025: Global Innovator Summit, where winners will present their ideas.
Application Requirements:
- A brief eligibility form to confirm qualification.
- A two-page application detailing the idea, its potential impact, and how it will be tested.
- A project abstract summarizing the concept.
- Applications must be written in plain language, so both experts and non-experts can understand.
- The NAM will evaluate proposals based on innovation, feasibility, and potential for long-term impact.
What’s Next?
If you or someone you know has a bold idea that could redefine ageing and longevity, this is a golden opportunity to bring that vision to life. The NAM Catalyst Award not only provides financial support but also connects innovators with a global network of experts and opportunities for growth.
Ageing should not be about limitations—it should be about possibilities. With the right innovations, we can create a future where people live longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.
Visit the National Academy of Medicine’s website to explore past winners, review competition details, and submit an application.
