Since 1989, SMRI has supported a research grants program to support research on the causes and treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. In 2008 this program was narrowed to support grants in two SMRI priority areas only: Infectious and Neuropathological Research. A total of 18 research projects were funded in May 2008 out of 55 applications.

At this time, the research grants program is under review.