The Research Foundation is focused on funding projects grounded in basic laboratory science and the education of scientists working on breakthroughs directed toward a cure for paralysis, secondary health effects and technologies associated with spinal cord injury or disease (SCI/D). The grant funds the following categories:

Basic Science - laboratory research in the basic sciences to find a cure for SCI/D
Clinical - clinical and functional studies of the medical, psychosocial and economic effects of SCI/D, and interventions to alleviate these effects
Design and Development - of new or improved rehabilitative and assistive technology/devices for people with SCI/D to improve function, which also includes improving the identification, selection and utilization of these devices.
Fellowships - for postdoctoral scientists, clinicians and engineers to encourage training and specialization in the field of spinal cord research

The Research Foundation now supports one, two or three year grants in the four areas of emphasis. Grants in Basic Science, Clinical Applications, and Design & Development categories will now be funded up to $200,000 for the grant period and Grants in the Fellowship category will now be funded up to $150,000 for the grant period.