# NHLBI Awards Airway Therapeutics Clinical Trial Grant

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) has awarded Airway Therapeutics, Inc. a **$1.9 million R44 SBIR grant** to support a Phase IIb/III clinical trial of zelpultide alfa aimed at preventing bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in extremely preterm neonates. This trial will enroll 150 infants across approximately 90 international sites, with NIH funding specifically covering 28 U.S. sites. This grant represents a significant procurement opportunity for contractors specializing in neonatal clinical research, drug development, and trial management services.

- **Why this matters:** The NHLBI grant highlights federal investment in neonatal drug development, signaling demand for clinical trial support services and specialized research capabilities.
- Procurement professionals should note the multi-site, international scope with a strong U.S. presence, indicating opportunities for domestic subcontractors and clinical research organizations.
- Companies involved in pediatric drug trials and neonatal care technologies may find strategic value in aligning with this program or similar NIH-funded initiatives.
- This award underscores the importance of SBIR grants as a funding mechanism for advancing innovative therapies in critical care populations.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Healthcare
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** September 18, 2026

### Government Entities
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
- National Institutes of Health (NIH)

### Vendors
- Airway Therapeutics, Inc. (awardee)

### Sources
- [Airway Therapeutics gets NHLBI grant for zelpultide alfa BPD trial](https://allsci.com/news/grants/zelpultide-alfa-airway-therapeutics-receives-19) - AllSci