Bridges2Scale: Testing ways to spread an economic program to help youths affected by AIDS
Official title: Bridges2Scale: Testing implementation strategies for an intervention among young people affected by AIDS
Funded at New York University · NIH-11525321 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study in sub-Saharan Africa tests if an economic empowerment program for young people affected by HIV improves health and adherence to HIV care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | February 3, 2026 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $333,079 |
| NIH project number | 3R01HD112323-04S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11525321 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
AY aged adolescents and youth affected by HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa and their families who can participate in savings-led economic empowerment activities.
✕Less likely to help
Youth without access to the intended program or in settings where implementation barriers are insurmountable may not experience benefits.
What this research studies
This project builds on years of work showing that teaching financial skills, helping families earn income, and saving money can reduce HIV risk and support treatment for young people affected by AIDS. It will test how to implement and scale these Bridges components in real-world, low-resource settings to reach more AY affected by HIV. Researchers will work with communities, families, and health systems to adapt and deliver the program and measure its impact on HIV care engagement, mental health, and education over time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could improve HIV treatment adherence, reduce risky behaviors, and strengthen families through improved income and savings.
How similar studies have gone: Previous Bridges trials in multiple countries showed positive effects on adherence and well-being, supporting a scalable approach.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ssewamala, Fred M — New York University
- Study coordinator: Ssewamala, Fred M
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.