Best Grants for Multiple Sclerosis Patients in Rhode Island

Faculty investigators at Rhode Island academic or hospital institutions can seek up to US $25,000 to redirect or expand medical research affected by federal priority changes. The Rhode Island Community Foundation supports laboratory, clinical, and population-based projects, including multiple sclerosis and other chronic disease research, covering data collection, supplies, equipment time, support personnel, and operating costs.

Rhode Island faculty-level medical researchers seeking up to US $25,000 to strengthen NIH resubmissions can apply for Resubmission Grants supporting data collection, supplies, travel, and equipment time. Rhode Island multiple sclerosis researchers and others in areas like cancer, cardiac disease, arthritis, and spinal cord injuries may benefit from this 12-month bridge funding opportunity from the Rhode Island Community Foundation.

Targeted Request for Applications

Targeted Funding Opportunity:

The National MS Society is pleased to announce the opening of a request for applications (RFA). This opportunity will be administered through the FIRST-MS initiative. By supporting the development of innovative risk identification and screening technologies, FIRST-MS (Faster Identification, Recognition, and Screening for Timely MS Diagnosis) aims to enable earlier diagnosis, thereby shortening time to treatment, and improving long-term outcomes for people with MS.

This funding opportunity seeks innovative screening technologies that can identify individuals likely to have MS within populations already enriched for MS risk. The goal of this global initiative is to support development and validation of scalable, clinically practical, and economical screening approaches that can be used across a wide variety of healthcare settings (e.g., primary care, specialty care, or community-based settings). Successful technologies will improve the identification of individuals who should undergo comprehensive neurological evaluation for MS, ultimately accelerating time to diagnosis.

Up to 5 recipients will be awarded Screening Test Awards with up to $5 million (including indirect costs) over 4 years.

Targeted Request for Applications

Targeted Funding Opportunity:

The National MS Society is pleased to announce the opening of a request for applications (RFA). This opportunity will be administered through the FIRST-MS initiative. By supporting the development of innovative risk identification and screening technologies, FIRST-MS (Faster Identification, Recognition, and Screening for Timely MS Diagnosis) aims to enable earlier diagnosis, thereby shortening time to treatment, and improving long-term outcomes for people with MS.

This funding opportunity seeks innovative screening technologies that can identify individuals likely to have MS within populations already enriched for MS risk. The goal of this global initiative is to support development and validation of scalable, clinically practical, and economical screening approaches that can be used across a wide variety of healthcare settings (e.g., primary care, specialty care, or community-based settings). Successful technologies will improve the identification of individuals who should undergo comprehensive neurological evaluation for MS, ultimately accelerating time to diagnosis.

Up to 10 recipients will be awarded Planning Grants with up to $25,000 over 3 months.

About Patient Advocate Foundation

Patient Advocate Foundation is the nation’s most comprehensive nonprofit dedicated to helping patients navigate, access, and afford the care they need—while improving the healthcare system for all.

Who we are and our impact

Patient Advocate Foundation provides financial assistance to help patients afford treatment and cost of living needs, personalized case management to navigate complex healthcare and social needs challenges, and a wide array of resources to empower people to take charge of their health. Since our founding in 1996—and joining forces with the PAN Foundation in 2026—we have helped 3.8 million patients navigate and access care, granted over $7 billion in financial assistance, served 350,000 people through personalized case management and elevated the patient’s voice to drive improvements in the healthcare system.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) health equity

Help with healthcare costs for multiple sclerosis (health equity)

This TotalAssist fund helps you pay for out-of-pocket healthcare costs, including medication copays, coinsurance, and deductibles, health insurance premiums, and other expenses.

Health Equity Funds offer help to eligible patients living in areas identified as having increased social and financial needs, as well as higher rates of chronic conditions. Eligibility is determined in part by home address zip code. 

About the disease

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a potentially disabling disease of the central nervous system in which the insulating covers of the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord are damaged. MS is a chronic disease that affects the nervous system.

About Patient Advocate Foundation

Patient Advocate Foundation is the nation’s most comprehensive nonprofit dedicated to helping patients navigate, access, and afford the care they need—while improving the healthcare system for all.

Who we are and our impact

Patient Advocate Foundation provides financial assistance to help patients afford treatment and cost of living needs, personalized case management to navigate complex healthcare and social needs challenges, and a wide array of resources to empower people to take charge of their health. Since our founding in 1996—and joining forces with the PAN Foundation in 2026—we have helped 3.8 million patients navigate and access care, granted over $7 billion in financial assistance, served 350,000 people through personalized case management and elevated the patient’s voice to drive improvements in the healthcare system.

Multiple sclerosis (MS)

Help with healthcare costs for Multiple sclerosis (MS)

This TotalAssist fund helps you pay for out-of-pocket healthcare costs, including medication copays, coinsurance, and deductibles, health insurance premiums, and other expenses.

About the disease

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a potentially disabling disease of the central nervous system in which the insulating covers of the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord are damaged. MS is a chronic disease that affects the nervous system.

Individuals with multiple sclerosis seeking assistive technology to support daily living, communication, mobility, or home and vehicle modifications in Rhode Island and nationwide can receive help covering these costs. The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation’s Assistive Technology Program may locate, partially fund, or fully fund devices that promote independence, safety, and quality of life.

Uninsured individuals with multiple sclerosis in Rhode Island can receive help covering one specialist visit and one follow-up, including dental care. With a mission to support MS patients’ healthcare access, Multiple Sclerosis Foundation provides direct payment to providers and negotiates costs on the applicant’s behalf for essential treatment visits.

Individuals with a documented multiple sclerosis diagnosis in Rhode Island can receive help covering reasonable paratransit costs and rides to MS-related medical care. Focused on transportation access, Multiple Sclerosis Foundation partners with Lyft and Uber to fund trips to neurologist appointments and infusion centers at no cost to the person with MS.

Students in Rhode Island affected by multiple sclerosis, either personally or through a close family member, can apply for Battle Creek Community Foundation’s Multiple Sclerosis Scholarship to support post-secondary education costs. Funding may cover tuition, books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation, with payments sent directly to the educational institution.

Patients in Rhode Island with systemic sclerosis with interstitial lung disease who are underinsured can receive help covering treatment-related costs through this fund, including those who also live with multiple sclerosis. HealthWell Foundation supports U.S. patients by assisting with prescription drug copays and Medicare Part B insurance premiums for covered medications like Ofev, Actemra, Cellcept, and others, with awards up to US $9,000.

Postdoctoral researchers in multiple sclerosis can receive training-focused fellowship support through the National Multiple Sclerosis Society at U.S. institutions, including those serving Rhode Island. With a mission to advance MS cures, the Society provides stipends for up to three years for fundamental, applied, clinical, and rehabilitation research aligned with its Pathways to Cures priorities.

Postdoctoral researchers in MS-related fields at U.S. academic, government, or nonprofit research institutions can apply for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Career Transition Fellowships to support advanced training and an early faculty appointment. Rhode Island investigators working on MS research questions from the Pathways to Cures Roadmap may be especially interested in this five-year support opportunity.

Grants support medical education and professional training in pediatric multiple sclerosis clinical care, including fellows who later practice in the U.S., which may benefit Rhode Island patients. Grants from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society help multiple sclerosis providers pursue a 12‑month pediatric MS clinical care fellowship with supervised patient care and multidisciplinary learning, offering US $75,000 in support.

With a mission to advance multiple sclerosis care, National Multiple Sclerosis Society provides Rhode Island medical education and professional training programs with a one-year, post-residency clinical fellowship in MS care. Board-eligible or certified neurologists and physiatrists in U.S.-based residency programs may receive US $75,000, paid to their institution, for supervised MS clinical training.

U.S. medical institutions training neurologists or physiatrists in multiple sclerosis care can apply for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Institutional Clinician Training Award, offering approximately US $225,000 to support mentored postdoctoral clinical fellowships. Rhode Island programs developing MS clinical specialists and comprehensive patient care may be especially interested in this opportunity.

Physicians with an MD or equivalent, licensed to practice in the U.S. and training in MS-related specialties, can apply for National Multiple Sclerosis Society Sylvia Lawry Physician Fellowships; awards up to US $225,000 for advanced clinical trial training. Rhode Island medical institutions conducting MS clinical research and trials may host eligible fellows.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society offers a Medical Student Mentorship Program that provides a four-week clinical experience for medical students who have completed at least one year of school. This program aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with MS and generate interest in careers focused on MS care. Students gain hands-on experience under the guidance of MS specialists, enhancing their understanding of the disease and its management.

The National MS Society offers Harry Weaver Scholar Awards to support emerging researchers in multiple sclerosis. This prestigious award honors Dr. Harry Weaver's legacy and aims to facilitate independent research careers. Eligible candidates must have a doctoral degree and relevant postdoctoral training. The funding is designed to provide salary and grant support for five years, allowing awardees to establish competence in their research area. Applications should align with the Society's Pathways to Cures Roadmap.

The National MS Society's Clinician Scientist Development Awards aim to cultivate promising young investigators in multiple sclerosis research. This program supports postdoctoral fellows with three years of comprehensive training in academic medicine focused on MS. Applicants must hold a clinical degree and be licensed in the U.S. The Society prioritizes research that aligns with its Pathways to Cures Roadmap, which emphasizes stopping disease progression, restoring function, and preventing MS.

Biogen Corporate Sponsorships provide funding to support congresses, events, and initiatives in exchange for tangible benefits such as marketing opportunities and recognition. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and requests must be submitted 50 days in advance. Biogen considers various disease areas for sponsorship, including Alzheimer’s and Multiple Sclerosis. Approval depends on funding availability, alignment with interests, and event details, ensuring transparency for all potential sponsors.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations providing rehabilitation, support services, or adaptive athletic and social programs for people with physical disabilities in Rhode Island may be eligible for this funding, up to US $20,000. Grants from Hanger Charitable Foundation help U.S. programs serving individuals with conditions like multiple sclerosis, limb loss, or trauma-related injuries.

Amgen is a leading biotechnology company dedicated to advancing medicine through Independent Medical Education (IME). It funds accredited educational programs that empower healthcare providers to enhance patient care. IME funding supports critical areas such as oncology, bone health, cardiovascular education, and more. Amgen's commitment ensures that these educational activities remain unbiased and compliant with applicable guidelines, fostering innovation and improved health outcomes for patients worldwide.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.