NIH Matchmaker, part of the NIH RePORTER system, is like a matchmaking app for your research and NIH’s institutes. You paste in a paragraph, abstract, or even just a few keywords about your work, and it generates a list of projects with similar themes. Even better, it highlights the ICs that funded those projects, giving you a solid idea of who might be most interested in your work.

Why does this matter so much? Not all NIH institutes are created equal—each has its own focus and priorities. Sending your grant to the right one can make or break your application. It’s not just about getting the science right; it’s about aligning with the institute’s mission and their funding goals.

For example, let’s say you’re working on a study about stem cells in bone marrow. Should you apply to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) or the National Cancer Institute (NCI)? It depends! Are you focused on regenerative therapies for blood disorders or cancer-related applications? NIH Matchmaker helps you figure that out by showing which ICs fund work similar to yours.

So, what’s the takeaway? Start early! Don’t wait until your proposal is fully written to check Matchmaker. Knowing which IC you’re targeting can help you tailor your specific aims, methods, and even the language you use to align with what they’re looking for. And don’t forget—once you have your Matchmaker results, program officers are there to help guide you. Reach out to them! Their insights can make all the difference.