The Gates Foundation is part of the Grand Challenges partnership network. Visit <a href="https://www.grandchallenges.org" target="_blank">www.grandchallenges.org</a> to view the map of awarded grants across this network and grant opportunities from partners.

Grand Challenges supports exceptional scientists with the expertise to do breakthrough R&amp;D as well as the experience, networks, and skills to excel as scientific leaders. These champions co-create projects with global partners, mobilize key institutions in their countries, and improve public health in their communities and around the world.

Grand Challenges funds innovations to tackle the biggest problems in global health and development. Since 2004, through the Grand Challenges program, we have supported more than 2500 innovation projects in more than 90 countries.

For more than 20 years, Grand Challenges has built trusted relationships with global health funders and researchers. We tap into this powerful network to create unique scientific collaborations with a transformative impact on people's lives.

Innovation happens all along the journey from idea, to experiment, to product or policy, and finally to delivery at scale in communities. We fund innovation projects while supporting an environment of champions, systems, and partnerships to maximize the impact these projects make in people's lives.

The 4 Pillars of the Grand Challenges Ecosystem

Doing groundbreaking science requires the right mix of institutions, policies, and tools. Grand Challenges works with partners in low- and middle-income countries to build or strengthen the capacities they need to succeed in R&amp;D.

Open Grant Opportunities

Professor Abdoulaye Djimdé Named to UN Secretary General's Scientific Advisory Board

<a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/champion/abdoulaye-djimde" target="_blank">Professor Abdoulaye Djimdé</a> has been appointed to the <a href="https://www.un.org/scientific-advisory-board/en/board-members" target="_blank">United Nations Secretary-General's Scientific Advisory Board</a>, marking an important step in elevating African leaders' voices in global research and science policy conversations.A leading expert in malaria genomics and drug resistance, Prof. Djimdé is focused on building research capacity and scientific collaboration across the continent. He embodies the <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/champions" target="_blank">Calestous Juma Science Leadership Fellowship's</a> vision to cultivate scientists who not only drive innovation but also guide decision-making and international cooperation.At a time when the world faces increasingly complex health and development challenges, Prof. Djimdé will bring an important and unique perspective to the board's work on science, technology, and innovation for sustainable development. "Scientific knowledge is strongest when it reflects diverse perspectives," Prof. Djimdé said in response to the appointment, "and I look forward to contributing African experience and expertise to conversations shaping the future of global health and development."

We challenge innovators around the world to work on urgent priorities in global health and development. We issue new challenges regularly and award the most promising proposals with grant funding.&nbsp;

Past Challenges

Grand Challenges

Innovations in Low-Cost and Simplified Pathogen Sequencing Workflows

This Grand Challenge initiative seeks to accelerate the development of low-cost, streamlined, and operationally simple targeted pathogen sequencing workflows designed for routine public health use in LMICs. We invite researchers and innovators to propose bold, scalable solutions that lower sequencing costs, simplify protocols, and democratize access to genomics.

Before applying to this Grand Challenges request for proposals (RFP), applicants should familiarize themselves with the supporting documents, including the <a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/sample-terms-and-conditions.pdf" target="_blank">terms and conditions of the Gates Foundation</a>, the <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/ai_consumer_engagement_for_family_planning_rules_and_guidelines.pdf" target="_blank">Rules and Guidelines</a>, <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/ai_consumer_engagement_for_family_planning_application_instructions.pdf" target="_blank">Application Instructions</a>, and <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/ai_consumer_engagement_for_family_planning_faqs.pdf" target="_blank">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</a>.If you plan to apply to this RFP, we will host a dedicated <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/ac4a79a3-e3f8-4878-8384-7f4a6a2fc759@296b3838-4bd5-496c-bd4b-f456ea743b74" target="_blank">webinar</a> on August 4, 2026, 7:00-8:00 a.m. US PDT. The session will provide an overview of the RFP and include time for questions. To attend, please <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/ac4a79a3-e3f8-4878-8384-7f4a6a2fc759@296b3838-4bd5-496c-bd4b-f456ea743b74" target="_blank">register</a> and <a href="https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=ODhrKdVLbEm9S_RW6nQ7dNyUf4PhutFBmFMAT6JKpddUNFc3TjhIQ05MMTVJUVJSWDg4MkVZOEE0Ty4u" target="_blank">submit your questions in advance</a>. A recording will be posted on the challenge page following the session for those unable to join live.<h2>Background</h2>Despite significant investment in family planning programs across sub-Saharan Africa, unmet need for contraception remains high. Women and girls face persistent barriers to accessing accurate, personalized information about family planning - barriers that clinic-based counseling alone cannot overcome at the scale and cost required to meaningfully shift contraceptive prevalence. Digital tools have expanded reach, but most existing approaches rely on one-way or rule-based messaging that cannot replicate the kind of responsive, personalized conversation that moves women from awareness to action.Recent advances in large language models have changed what is possible. Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled consumer engagement tools can now hold nuanced, multi-turn conversations in local languages, respond to individual questions and concerns, and deliver personalized information at very low marginal cost across both public and private sector channels. Platforms with existing distribution - through telecoms, government health systems, community networks, and commercial channels - are beginning to deploy these tools at scale across the region, often serving broad women's health and consumer health needs that could extend to family planning.What the field lacks is evidence. We do not yet know which AI-enabled engagement approaches work best to drive contraceptive uptake and continuation, which conversation features and content strategies make the difference, or how to evaluate interaction quality in ways that predict real outcomes. Without that understanding, investments in AI-enabled family planning tools cannot be optimized, replicated, or responsibly scaled. This challenge is designed to generate that evidence - and to build the shared analytic foundation the field needs to learn from it.<h2>The Challenge</h2>This RFP seeks to answer a core question for the family planning field: can AI-enabled direct-to-consumer engagement improve contraceptive uptake, continuation, and informed method choice at scale - and, if so, which approach works best?This challenge is designed to generate practical evidence on what high-quality, AI-assisted family planning engagement looks like in the AI era. We are interested in understanding which AI-enabled tools are most effective to engage users and improve contraception uptake and continuation. More specifically, we are interested in understanding which tools and approaches (e.g., content personalization, rapid content scaling, automated customer journeys, etc.) work best for which types of users to directly engage them and improve uptake and which platforms/tools have demonstrated less success for this objective. We do not expect applicants to arrive with platforms already proven for contraception; we welcome consumer engagement approaches with a demonstrated track record in women's health or consumer health more broadly, and ask applicants to deploy, test, and assess how well they work for family planning.The challenge will focus on women and girls of reproductive age in sub-Saharan Africa. Interventions can be delivered through public sector platforms, private sector channels, or hybrid models.Applicants must be able to measure the quality and characteristics of the AI-enabled interaction, scale and usage, and the user outcomes that occur after the interaction. Successful proposals should demonstrate a credible pathway between AI-enabled engagement and family planning outcomes, while also contributing to learning that can inform the broader field. Applicants should be prepared to assess not only whether the intervention changed behavior, but how and why.ObjectivesThe objectives of this challenge are to:<ol><li data-list-item-id="e710c6c87d3a01740289f609b6f3317d4">Generate evidence on impact and scale. Demonstrate whether and how AI-enabled direct-to-consumer engagement improves contraceptive uptake, method continuation, and/or informed method choice at scale.</li><li data-list-item-id="e35e5cb1c13dd43e10f315703bca20725">Identify the features of effective engagement. Determine which interaction characteristics, content strategies, personalization approaches, prompts, follow-up models, or conversation patterns are associated with stronger user outcomes.</li><li data-list-item-id="e3771db4ac2f8487df0f7ebbabe0fc733">Build a shared evidence base for AI-enabled family planning engagement. Produce labeled conversation examples, interaction taxonomies, quality rubrics, safety, confidentiality, and guardrail protocols, and/or other analytic tools that can help the field evaluate and improve AI-enabled consumer engagement beyond a single program or platform.</li><li data-list-item-id="eb3947950669686ac0b2e33b4d694df63">Assess cost, feasibility, and added value. Document the cost, operational requirements, feasibility, and comparative value of AI-enabled engagement relative to alternative consumer engagement or demand-generation models, including the conditions under which AI-enabled approaches are likely to add meaningful value.</li></ol>Proposals should be designed to produce both programmatic results and field-building insights. The strongest applications will combine a compelling intervention model with a rigorous approach to measurement, a clear plan for analyzing interaction quality, and a commitment to generating practical learning that can inform future investments in AI-enabled family planning tools.Funding LevelWe will consider proposals for awards of up to $500,000 USD for each project, with a grant term of up to 12 months. Application budgets should be commensurate with the scope of work proposed. Indirect costs may be included in the budget, up to a maximum of 15% of the total budget (subject to the <a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/Documents/Indirect_Cost_Policy.pdf" target="_blank" title="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/indirect_cost_policy.pdf">Gates Foundation's indirect cost policy</a>).Eligibility CriteriaThis initiative is open globally to nonprofit organizations, for-profit companies, international organizations, government agencies and academic institutions. Multi stakeholder collaborations are encouraged. Individuals and organizations classified as individuals for U.S. tax purposes are not eligible to receive an award from the foundation as part of this initiative.We are looking for proposals that:<ul><li data-list-item-id="e06cf7097e8ad1e40aae097447b044d31">Applicants should have existing women’s/ consumer health intervention cohorts in Nigeria, Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Senegal, Niger, Kenya, South Africa, Zambia or Côte d’Ivoire.</li><li data-list-item-id="e0d63a2e37be552f0c2271af6361b87e9">Applicants should have an existing consumer engagement approach - in family planning, women's health, or consumer health more broadly - and an established user base or distribution relationship - characterized by engagement (e.g., monthly active users), not size alone - ideally in at least one target geography at the time of application</li><li data-list-item-id="ec7d92e33d687c4501c78a55ec73f35a2">The AI-enabled engagement approach itself can be new and innovative, but the grant period should be spent on deployment, learning, and evaluation, not on acquiring users or negotiating platform access</li><li data-list-item-id="e246e5ee470530057fb2de84362c5b413">Propose a credible evaluation design that measures the quality, safety, and confidentiality of the AI-enabled interaction and downstream user outcomes, including contraceptive uptake, method continuation, or informed method choice</li><li data-list-item-id="ecb252dee32c38ada115a5de04fbc0472">Have a clear theory of what effective engagement looks like and how interaction quality connects to behavior change - and a plan to test it</li><li data-list-item-id="e0c94042548d36da2742185291c8ba689">Operate at sufficient scale to generate meaningful findings within the grant period</li><li data-list-item-id="e3dc987e1382f7b753d114ce2081bf4a9">Commit to producing outputs that contribute to the shared evidence base - including but not limited to labeled interaction examples, conversation quality rubrics, interaction taxonomies, or safety, confidentiality, and guardrail protocols</li><li data-list-item-id="e6af423bbdf4a99d1612f641bb4e9b662">Demonstrate that AI-generated content is grounded in vetted, locally relevant family planning information aligned with national MOH or WHO guidelines</li><li data-list-item-id="e80ffff4c428f9bf2c7a2e6592cf3df06">Are led by organizations with deep contextual knowledge of the target geography and population</li><li data-list-item-id="e0b68135de1c09e152d74394ea8a6e9c2">Define their target user and explain how relevant their existing user base is to family planning outcomes - particularly for solutions not originally focused on family planning</li><li data-list-item-id="e0cf85366e10aab74a887b45cd24ca880">Describe their user acquisition model, including key metrics, and their user retention efforts - recognizing that engagement quality and the human touchpoints before and after the digital interaction matter as much to family planning outcomes as user-base size</li></ul>We will not fund proposals that:<ul><li data-list-item-id="e84df7aa3525d6fe0603150f1599cac7a">Rely on engagement metrics alone - sessions completed, messages sent, users registered - as primary evidence of effectiveness</li><li data-list-item-id="ee1fbce0f147257b1c061e85401a3487d">Lack an existing user base or distribution relationship in a target geography at the time of application</li><li data-list-item-id="e0cc03beb6d84d4b9609edbf5421c256c">Propose work outside of sub-Saharan Africa. Preference for solutions targeting Nigeria, Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Senegal, Niger, or Côte d'Ivoire</li><li data-list-item-id="ed53fac7f1fdbf27292186b2f2cc3b6e0">Are primarily research-led without a real-world operational deployment component at scale</li></ul>

AI-Enabled Consumer Engagement to Advance Family Planning

Before applying to this Grand Challenges request for proposals (RFP), applicants should familiarize themselves with the supporting documents, including the <a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/sample-terms-and-conditions.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">terms and conditions of the Gates Foundation</a>, the <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/ai_consumer_engagement_for_family_planning_rules_and_guidelines.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Rules and Guidelines</a>, <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/ai_consumer_engagement_for_family_planning_application_instructions.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Application Instructions</a>, and <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/ai-enabled-consumer-engagement-advance-family-planning-frequently-asked-questions-faqs" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</a>.
If you plan to apply to this RFP, we will host a dedicated <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/ac4a79a3-e3f8-4878-8384-7f4a6a2fc759@296b3838-4bd5-496c-bd4b-f456ea743b74" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">webinar</a> on August 4, 2026, 7:00-8:00 a.m. US PDT. The session will provide an overview of the RFP and include time for questions. To attend, please <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/ac4a79a3-e3f8-4878-8384-7f4a6a2fc759@296b3838-4bd5-496c-bd4b-f456ea743b74" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">register</a> and <a href="https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=ODhrKdVLbEm9S_RW6nQ7dNyUf4PhutFBmFMAT6JKpddUNFc3TjhIQ05MMTVJUVJSWDg4MkVZOEE0Ty4u" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">submit your questions in advance</a>. A recording will be posted on the challenge page following the session for those unable to join live.
<h2>Background</h2>
Despite significant investment in family planning programs across sub-Saharan Africa, unmet need for contraception remains high. Women and girls face persistent barriers to accessing accurate, personalized information about family planning - barriers that clinic-based counseling alone cannot overcome at the scale and cost required to meaningfully shift contraceptive prevalence. Digital tools have expanded reach, but most existing approaches rely on one-way or rule-based messaging that cannot replicate the kind of responsive, personalized conversation that moves women from awareness to action.
Recent advances in large language models have changed what is possible. Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled consumer engagement tools can now hold nuanced, multi-turn conversations in local languages, respond to individual questions and concerns, and deliver personalized information at very low marginal cost across both public and private sector channels. Platforms with existing distribution - through telecoms, government health systems, community networks, and commercial channels - are beginning to deploy these tools at scale across the region, often serving broad women's health and consumer health needs that could extend to family planning.
What the field lacks is evidence. We do not yet know which AI-enabled engagement approaches work best to drive contraceptive uptake and continuation, which conversation features and content strategies make the difference, or how to evaluate interaction quality in ways that predict real outcomes. Without that understanding, investments in AI-enabled family planning tools cannot be optimized, replicated, or responsibly scaled. This challenge is designed to generate that evidence - and to build the shared analytic foundation the field needs to learn from it.
<h2>The Challenge</h2>
This RFP seeks to answer a core question for the family planning field: can AI-enabled direct-to-consumer engagement improve contraceptive uptake, continuation, and informed method choice at scale - and, if so, which approach works best?
This challenge is designed to generate practical evidence on what high-quality, AI-assisted family planning engagement looks like in the AI era. We are interested in understanding which AI-enabled tools are most effective to engage users and improve contraception uptake and continuation. More specifically, we are interested in understanding which tools and approaches (e.g., content personalization, rapid content scaling, automated customer journeys, etc.) work best for which types of users to directly engage them and improve uptake and which platforms/tools have demonstrated less success for this objective. We do not expect applicants to arrive with platforms already proven for contraception; we welcome consumer engagement approaches with a demonstrated track record in women's health or consumer health more broadly, and ask applicants to deploy, test, and assess how well they work for family planning.
The challenge will focus on women and girls of reproductive age in sub-Saharan Africa. Interventions can be delivered through public sector platforms, private sector channels, or hybrid models.
Applicants must be able to measure the quality and characteristics of the AI-enabled interaction, scale and usage, and the user outcomes that occur after the interaction. Successful proposals should demonstrate a credible pathway between AI-enabled engagement and family planning outcomes, while also contributing to learning that can inform the broader field. Applicants should be prepared to assess not only whether the intervention changed behavior, but how and why.
Objectives
The objectives of this challenge are to:
<ol>
<li>Generate evidence on impact and scale. Demonstrate whether and how AI-enabled direct-to-consumer engagement improves contraceptive uptake, method continuation, and/or informed method choice at scale.</li>
<li>Identify the features of effective engagement. Determine which interaction characteristics, content strategies, personalization approaches, prompts, follow-up models, or conversation patterns are associated with stronger user outcomes.</li>
<li>Build a shared evidence base for AI-enabled family planning engagement. Produce labeled conversation examples, interaction taxonomies, quality rubrics, safety, confidentiality, and guardrail protocols, and/or other analytic tools that can help the field evaluate and improve AI-enabled consumer engagement beyond a single program or platform.</li>
<li>Assess cost, feasibility, and added value. Document the cost, operational requirements, feasibility, and comparative value of AI-enabled engagement relative to alternative consumer engagement or demand-generation models, including the conditions under which AI-enabled approaches are likely to add meaningful value.</li>
</ol>
Proposals should be designed to produce both programmatic results and field-building insights. The strongest applications will combine a compelling intervention model with a rigorous approach to measurement, a clear plan for analyzing interaction quality, and a commitment to generating practical learning that can inform future investments in AI-enabled family planning tools.
Funding Level
We will consider proposals for awards of up to $500,000 USD for each project, with a grant term of up to 12 months. Application budgets should be commensurate with the scope of work proposed. Indirect costs may be included in the budget, up to a maximum of 15% of the total budget (subject to the <a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/Documents/Indirect_Cost_Policy.pdf" target="_blank" title="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/indirect_cost_policy.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer">Gates Foundation's indirect cost policy</a>).
Eligibility Criteria
This initiative is open globally to nonprofit organizations, for-profit companies, international organizations, government agencies and academic institutions. Multi stakeholder collaborations are encouraged. Individuals and organizations classified as individuals for U.S. tax purposes are not eligible to receive an award from the foundation as part of this initiative.
We are looking for proposals that:
<ul>
<li>Applicants should have existing women’s/ consumer health intervention cohorts in Nigeria, Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Senegal, Niger, Kenya, South Africa, Zambia or Côte d’Ivoire.</li>
<li>Applicants should have an existing consumer engagement approach - in family planning, women's health, or consumer health more broadly - and an established user base or distribution relationship - characterized by engagement (e.g., monthly active users), not size alone - ideally in at least one target geography at the time of application</li>
<li>The AI-enabled engagement approach itself can be new and innovative, but the grant period should be spent on deployment, learning, and evaluation, not on acquiring users or negotiating platform access</li>
<li>Propose a credible evaluation design that measures the quality, safety, and confidentiality of the AI-enabled interaction and downstream user outcomes, including contraceptive uptake, method continuation, or informed method choice</li>
<li>Have a clear theory of what effective engagement looks like and how interaction quality connects to behavior change - and a plan to test it</li>
<li>Operate at sufficient scale to generate meaningful findings within the grant period</li>
<li>Commit to producing outputs that contribute to the shared evidence base - including but not limited to labeled interaction examples, conversation quality rubrics, interaction taxonomies, or safety, confidentiality, and guardrail protocols</li>
<li>Demonstrate that AI-generated content is grounded in vetted, locally relevant family planning information aligned with national MOH or WHO guidelines</li>
<li>Are led by organizations with deep contextual knowledge of the target geography and population</li>
<li>Define their target user and explain how relevant their existing user base is to family planning outcomes - particularly for solutions not originally focused on family planning</li>
<li>Describe their user acquisition model, including key metrics, and their user retention efforts - recognizing that engagement quality and the human touchpoints before and after the digital interaction matter as much to family planning outcomes as user-base size</li>
</ul>
We will not fund proposals that:
<ul>
<li>Rely on engagement metrics alone - sessions completed, messages sent, users registered - as primary evidence of effectiveness</li>
<li>Lack an existing user base or distribution relationship in a target geography at the time of application</li>
<li>Propose work outside of sub-Saharan Africa. Preference for solutions targeting Nigeria, Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Senegal, Niger, or Côte d'Ivoire</li>
<li>Are primarily research-led without a real-world operational deployment component at scale</li>
</ul>

This RFP seeks to answer a core question for the family planning field: can AI-enabled direct-to-consumer engagement improve contraceptive uptake, continuation, and informed method choice at scale - and, if so, which approach works best?
This challenge is designed to generate practical evidence on what high-quality, AI-assisted family planning engagement looks like in the AI era. We are interested in understanding which AI-enabled tools are most effective to engage users and improve contraception uptake and continuation.

Before applying to this Grand Challenges request for proposals (RFP), applicants should familiarize themselves with the supporting documents, including the&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/sample-terms-and-conditions.pdf" target="_blank">terms and conditions of the Gates Foundation</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/indicators_of_micronutrient_status_rules_and_guidelines.pdf" target="_blank">Rules and Guidelines</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/indicators_of_micronutrient_status_application_instructions.pdf" target="_blank">Application Instructions</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/multiplex-platforms-assess-indicators-micronutrient-status-and-infection-and-inflammation" target="_blank">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</a>.If you plan to apply to this RFP, we will host a dedicated&nbsp;<a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/87a5ecee-9e3c-417d-a46c-ab3012b9fa85@296b3838-4bd5-496c-bd4b-f456ea743b74" target="_blank">webinar</a>&nbsp;on August 11, 2026, 7:00-8:00 a.m. US PDT. The session will provide an overview of the RFP and include time for questions. To attend, please <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/87a5ecee-9e3c-417d-a46c-ab3012b9fa85@296b3838-4bd5-496c-bd4b-f456ea743b74" target="_blank">register</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=ODhrKdVLbEm9S_RW6nQ7dNyUf4PhutFBmFMAT6JKpddUOVBQVzFaR041MFc4MEU0QkFDTEpUVEs1Qi4u" target="_blank">submit your questions in advance</a>. A recording will be posted on the challenge page following the session for those unable to join live.<h2>Background</h2>Vitamins and minerals, collectively referred to as micronutrients), play essential roles in human metabolism and are required for physical growth, cognitive development, immune function, and the recovery from infection. Micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among vulnerable groups in low- and middle-income countries (chiefly women of child-bearing age, especially during pregnancy and lactation, preschool-age children and older adults), constrain social and economic development and limit progress toward good health and well-being. These deficiencies may arise from insufficient dietary intake, from concurrent disease or parasitism, or from genetic traits that affect MN metabolism. Diagnosing their causes, magnitude, severity, and population prevalence is essential for designing appropriate treatments and interventions, and for monitoring their effectiveness and safety.Over the past fifty years, progress against several long-standing micronutrient deficiencies has been substantial. Goiter and cognitive impairment caused by iodine deficiency have largely disappeared with iodized salt and iodine supplementation in animal feed; survival and resistance to infection have improved through correction of vitamin A deficiency; and neural tube defects have fallen in many high-income countries through folic acid fortification and supplementation. Progress against iron deficiency and anemia has been more modest, in part because infection and inflammation impair iron absorption and utilization. Micronutrient status must therefore be assessed together with biomarkers of infection and inflammation. There is also a need to add bioindicators for micronutrients that are infrequently assessed but central to physiology: vitamins B2 and B12, for example, are essential for the conversion of folic acid into folate (the active form of vitamin B9) and for combined action as catalyzers of many enzymatic reactions. In non-affluent populations, B2 or B12 deficiency may be as important as B9 deficiency.Recent advances in immunological and molecular recognition technologies allow several bioindicators to be measured simultaneously. For example, the Quansys multiplex kit measures several analytes (soluble transferrin receptor, ferritin, retinol binding protein, thyroglobulin and the acute-phase proteins CRP and AGP) in a single microplate well. This is possible because these analytes are immunogenic proteins for which specific antibodies can be generated. Extending this approach to less immunogenic bioindicators may now be feasible using other analyte-binding molecules, such as folate-binding protein from milk or porcine plasma, the B12 intrinsic factor, and synthetic nucleotide sequences, including RNA or DNA) aptamers that bind small molecules. This Grand Challenge seeks novel approaches to extend analytical coverage, improve sensitivity and specificity, simplify measurement, reduce cost, and enable frequent monitoring of micronutrient status by local institutions. A multiplex assay works only for analytes of similar chemical nature and concentration, so the wider micronutrient panel under discussion for the MNBI (for example zinc, vitamin C and vitamin D) cannot simply be folded into a single platform; those analytes require different detection principles and belong to separate future workstreams. No single platform is expected to carry every analyte, and this challenge focuses on the multiplex-compatible set, allowing a complementary, separate plate where needed (for example, red-blood-cell folate).<h2>The Challenge</h2>Although combined immunological measurement of several micronutrient biomarkers has been demonstrated, current methods still have important limitations. These include heterogeneity in the composition of standards and controls; inconsistent batch-to-batch performance of&nbsp;analyte-binding molecules; variable reactivity for some analytes, especially soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR); and a functional analytical range that is too narrow to cover the physiological values of some analytes, such as CRP. It would&nbsp;also be valuable to add bioindicators for vitamins B1, B2, B9 and B12, which may require binding molecules that recognize metabolites or proteins associated with deficiency, a specific vitamer (plasma methyl-tetrahydrofolate without reacting with folic acid), comparable reactivity across vitamers (several folate forms in red blood cells), or a specific carrier-protein form (holo-transcobalamin rather than apo-transcobalamin or haptocorrin for vitamin B12).The improved assays must combine high analytical specificity, sensitivity and robustness with a functional analytical range matched to the physiological values expected in the target populations&nbsp;(women of reproductive age, including during pregnancy and lactation, preschool-age children and older adults). Assays must remain low-cost (no more than US$20 for all analytes measured in duplicate) and require very small sample volumes, preferably less than 10 µL of plasma or serum). The tests are intended for population surveillance rather than local clinical (point-of-care) use. They should be designed to run many samples in a single batch in a small number of national or regional reference laboratories. The goal is to reduce dependence on expensive, infrequent population surveys and on export of samples to specialized laboratories in high-income settings.This challenge is structured around two alternatives,&nbsp;a minimum-scope approach and an optimistic-scope approach. Targets are aligned with the candidate <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/indicators_of_micronutrient_status_target_product_profile.pdf" target="_blank">Target Product Profile</a> for this platform, and applicants will be held to the relevant performance, cost and instrument targets.<table class="table"><thead><tr><th>Parameter</th><th>Alternative A - Minimum scope</th><th>Alternative B - Optimistic scope</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Analyte panel</td><td>Strengthen and modestly extend the current multiplex test. Measure: soluble transferrin receptor, ferritin, RBP4, thyroglobulin, plasma methyl-tetrahydrofolate (without cross-reactivity with folic acid; a complementary folic-acid-specific test may be proposed), holo-transcobalamin (without cross-reactivity with apo-transcobalamin and all-haptocorrin), CRP and AGP.</td><td>All Alternative A analytes, plus metabolites or proteins associated with vitamin B1 and B2 deficiency, and thyroid hormones. A complementary test for whole-folate vitamers in red blood cells may also be included, on a separate microtiter platform if needed.</td></tr><tr><td>Sample volume</td><td>≤10 µL plasma/serum</td><td>≤5 µL plasma/serum. Other specimen types, such as dried blood spots (DBS), may also be addressed as optimistic scope; see note below. Response (not optimization) in twice that volume of whole blood from the same individuals should also be measured and reported, together with hematocrit.</td></tr><tr><td>Analytical Precision (CV)</td><td>&lt;20% CV total; &lt;15% within-run at the functional analytical sensitivity covering the expected physiological range of each analyte</td><td>&lt;10% CV total; &lt;8% within-run at the functional analytical sensitivity covering the expected physiological range of each analyte</td></tr><tr><td>Analytical sensitivity (LoD)</td><td>sTfR: 2–30 mg/L&nbsp; Ferritin: 5–100 µg/L&nbsp; RBP4: 0.3–3.0 µmol/L&nbsp; Thyroglobulin: 10–100 µg/L&nbsp; Methyl-THF: 5–50 nmol/L&nbsp; Holo-transcobalamin: to be defined&nbsp; CRP: 1–30 mg/L&nbsp; AGP: 0.5–5 g/L&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td><td>sTfR: 1–40 mg/L&nbsp; Ferritin: 2–200 µg/L&nbsp; RBP4: 0.2–4.0 µmol/L&nbsp; Thyroglobulin: 5–300 µg/L&nbsp; Methyl-THF: 2–100 nmol/L&nbsp; RBC folate: 100–2000 nmol/L&nbsp; Holo-transcobalamin: to be defined&nbsp; CRP: 1–50 mg/L&nbsp; AGP: 0.25–5 g/L&nbsp; Thyroid hormones, B1, B2: as required for satisfactory diagnostic performance</td></tr><tr><td>Accuracy (Bias / Trueness)</td><td>≤ 10% bias across the measuring range for all target analytes when tested against certified reference materials</td><td>≤ 5% bias across the measuring range for all target analytes when tested against certified reference materials</td></tr><tr><td>Concordance&nbsp;</td><td>≥90% concordance when measured against, validated laboratory immunoassays or analytical gold standard methods, for all target analytes</td><td>≥95% concordance when measured against, validated laboratory immunoassays or analytical gold standard methods, for all target analytes</td></tr><tr><td>Cost target</td><td>≤US$20 per sample for all analytes measured in duplicate (i.e., 2 wells). This ceiling is per sample for the full panel in duplicate, not per analyte.</td><td>≤US$20 per sample for all analytes measured in duplicate (i.e., 2 wells). Optimistic stretch goal: ≤US$10 per sample for the full panel in duplicate.</td></tr><tr><td>Instrument</td><td>Bench-top signal-detection device, ≤US$30,000 per unit.</td><td>Bench-top signal-detection device, ≤US$25,000 per unit.</td></tr><tr><td>Funding &amp; term</td><td>Awards up to US$200,000 per project; grant term up to 12 months.</td><td>Awards up to US$800,000 per project; grant term up to 24 months. Budgets and terms evaluated per project and commensurate with scope.</td></tr></tbody></table>Note on dried blood spots:&nbsp;application of these assays to dried blood spots is a distinct downstream study to be undertaken once the tests are developed, and is not part of the core development scope of either alternative. Sample-volume targets are included&nbsp;to keep this pathway open. Applicants with an integrated, DBS-capable approach may optionally submit DBS-readiness data; such data are invited but will not be scored.Specifically, the objectives of this challenge are to:<ul><li data-list-item-id="ec71dae7ebd73fcfb4af1ada5080fd4d2">Improve the current multiplex test for immunological determination of nutritional-status analytes, overcoming standard heterogeneity, widening the functional analytical range to the expected physiological values, and maintaining simplicity and low cost (Alternatives A and B).</li><li data-list-item-id="e4652bd7b56a456f359a2781093fd2efd">Extend the panel to bioindicators of vitamins B9 and B12&nbsp;by introducing novel binding molecules (Alternatives A and B).</li><li data-list-item-id="ec85570c6f740e8ac601eb32c1d08e258">Measure the nutritional status of vitamins B1 and B2&nbsp;using metabolites or proteins associated with their deficiency (Alternative B).</li><li data-list-item-id="e1a1592a1c8ce58c2fff4f6de0bc70dd1">Develop an immunological or other binding-based test for total folate in red blood cells that gives results comparable to the microbiological assay, and maintain accuracy and precision from small plasma/serum volumes to enable later application to dried blood spots (Alternative B).</li><li data-list-item-id="e3e04f0075fbbcfcb9073c1cf0372b2ff">Maintain accuracy and precision using small plasma or serum volumes in order to enable later application to dried blood spots.</li></ul>Funding LevelAwards depend on the alternative proposed:<ul><li data-list-item-id="e9a580cd00d5973c818a40fc1871d23e3">Alternative A (minimum scope):&nbsp;awards up to US$200,000 per project, with a grant term of up to 12 months.</li><li data-list-item-id="e86361caceef84a8f992cd2c339a50751">Alternative B (optimistic scope):&nbsp;awards up to US$800,000 per project, with a grant term of up to 24 months, evaluated per project.</li></ul>Application budgets should be commensurate with the scope of work proposed. Indirect costs may be included in the budget, up to a maximum of 15% of the total budget (subject to the&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/Documents/Indirect_Cost_Policy.pdf" target="_blank" title="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/indirect_cost_policy.pdf">Gates Foundation's indirect cost policy</a>).Eligibility CriteriaThis initiative is open to nonprofit organizations, for-profit companies, international organizations, government agencies and academic institutions. We particularly encourage applications led by women or in collaboration with women-led organizations, and applications from or in collaboration with institutions based in low- and middle-income countries. Only applicants applying through a legally recognized corporate entity are eligible. Because no single institution is likely to hold all the necessary expertise, collaboration among groups working in human metabolism, biomolecule characterization and immunology is strongly encouraged.We are looking for proposals that:<ul><li data-list-item-id="e31e4ae110579e371bf9dd1b98d7a9f3a">Address a clearly defined analyte, performance or cost target within the scope of this challenge.</li><li data-list-item-id="ef490a4802de4777b0f37a2e8babc26ce">Demonstrate a novel or innovative approach to extending multiplex analytical coverage (e.g. new analyte-binding molecules).</li><li data-list-item-id="ea182f134906554a5d5e40f5941be8ee2">Demonstrate collaboration and coordination among institutions with complementary expertise.</li><li data-list-item-id="ea48951bdaa5f88326caa97dc64a2d8d7">Can realistically achieve the objectives within the proposed timeframe.</li><li data-list-item-id="eecb468964a18246a49485342986627fb">Include a feasible implementation plan for low- and middle-income reference laboratories, with attention to affordability and end-user needs.</li><li data-list-item-id="e0d8b96e6a12025d1d650ab86f9454351">Show potential for scalability at low cost and assure the future supply of equipment and reagents.</li><li data-list-item-id="ea15fe930ff1d56c8b6e94bf709a06531">Offer ongoing technical assistance and equipment maintenance.</li></ul>We will not fund proposals that:<ul><li data-list-item-id="e70c2364c722d94b53669e242cf2d8a26">Fall outside the thematic focus of this RFP.</li><li data-list-item-id="e5f1135f2ca25f8a173c0be926958783d">Offer incremental improvements without meaningful innovation.</li><li data-list-item-id="ed8c2d3179849764add43dcb7827daebe">Are commercialization-only efforts.</li><li data-list-item-id="e67ae49490f6bde003e542ba94f16e680">Constitute basic research without translational relevance.</li><li data-list-item-id="eec1cc1ca51b96e799beaff536cb21081">Focus on excluded geographies or populations.</li></ul>

Multiplex Platforms to Assess Indicators of Micronutrient Status, Inflammation and Infectious Disease

Before applying to this Grand Challenges request for proposals (RFP), applicants should familiarize themselves with the supporting documents, including the&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/sample-terms-and-conditions.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">terms and conditions of the Gates Foundation</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/indicators_of_micronutrient_status_rules_and_guidelines.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Rules and Guidelines</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/indicators_of_micronutrient_status_application_instructions.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Application Instructions</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/indicators_of_micronutrient_status_faqs.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</a>.
If you plan to apply to this RFP, we will host a dedicated&nbsp;<a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/87a5ecee-9e3c-417d-a46c-ab3012b9fa85@296b3838-4bd5-496c-bd4b-f456ea743b74" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">webinar</a>&nbsp;on August 11, 2026, 7:00-8:00 a.m. US PDT. The session will provide an overview of the RFP and include time for questions. To attend, please <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/87a5ecee-9e3c-417d-a46c-ab3012b9fa85@296b3838-4bd5-496c-bd4b-f456ea743b74" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">register</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=ODhrKdVLbEm9S_RW6nQ7dNyUf4PhutFBmFMAT6JKpddUOVBQVzFaR041MFc4MEU0QkFDTEpUVEs1Qi4u" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">submit your questions in advance</a>. A recording will be posted on the challenge page following the session for those unable to join live.
<h2>Background</h2>
Vitamins and minerals, collectively referred to as micronutrients), play essential roles in human metabolism and are required for physical growth, cognitive development, immune function, and the recovery from infection. Micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among vulnerable groups in low- and middle-income countries (chiefly women of child-bearing age, especially during pregnancy and lactation, preschool-age children and older adults), constrain social and economic development and limit progress toward good health and well-being. These deficiencies may arise from insufficient dietary intake, from concurrent disease or parasitism, or from genetic traits that affect MN metabolism. Diagnosing their causes, magnitude, severity, and population prevalence is essential for designing appropriate treatments and interventions, and for monitoring their effectiveness and safety.
Over the past fifty years, progress against several long-standing micronutrient deficiencies has been substantial. Goiter and cognitive impairment caused by iodine deficiency have largely disappeared with iodized salt and iodine supplementation in animal feed; survival and resistance to infection have improved through correction of vitamin A deficiency; and neural tube defects have fallen in many high-income countries through folic acid fortification and supplementation. Progress against iron deficiency and anemia has been more modest, in part because infection and inflammation impair iron absorption and utilization. Micronutrient status must therefore be assessed together with biomarkers of infection and inflammation. There is also a need to add bioindicators for micronutrients that are infrequently assessed but central to physiology: vitamins B2 and B12, for example, are essential for the conversion of folic acid into folate (the active form of vitamin B9) and for combined action as catalyzers of many enzymatic reactions. In non-affluent populations, B2 or B12 deficiency may be as important as B9 deficiency.
Recent advances in immunological and molecular recognition technologies allow several bioindicators to be measured simultaneously. For example, the Quansys multiplex kit measures several analytes (soluble transferrin receptor, ferritin, retinol binding protein, thyroglobulin and the acute-phase proteins CRP and AGP) in a single microplate well. This is possible because these analytes are immunogenic proteins for which specific antibodies can be generated. Extending this approach to less immunogenic bioindicators may now be feasible using other analyte-binding molecules, such as folate-binding protein from milk or porcine plasma, the B12 intrinsic factor, and synthetic nucleotide sequences, including RNA or DNA) aptamers that bind small molecules. This Grand Challenge seeks novel approaches to extend analytical coverage, improve sensitivity and specificity, simplify measurement, reduce cost, and enable frequent monitoring of micronutrient status by local institutions. A multiplex assay works only for analytes of similar chemical nature and concentration, so the wider micronutrient panel under discussion for the MNBI (for example zinc, vitamin C and vitamin D) cannot simply be folded into a single platform; those analytes require different detection principles and belong to separate future workstreams. No single platform is expected to carry every analyte, and this challenge focuses on the multiplex-compatible set, allowing a complementary, separate plate where needed (for example, red-blood-cell folate).
<h2>The Challenge</h2>
Although combined immunological measurement of several micronutrient biomarkers has been demonstrated, current methods still have important limitations. These include heterogeneity in the composition of standards and controls; inconsistent batch-to-batch performance of&nbsp;analyte-binding molecules; variable reactivity for some analytes, especially soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR); and a functional analytical range that is too narrow to cover the physiological values of some analytes, such as CRP. It would&nbsp;also be valuable to add bioindicators for vitamins B1, B2, B9 and B12, which may require binding molecules that recognize metabolites or proteins associated with deficiency, a specific vitamer (plasma methyl-tetrahydrofolate without reacting with folic acid), comparable reactivity across vitamers (several folate forms in red blood cells), or a specific carrier-protein form (holo-transcobalamin rather than apo-transcobalamin or haptocorrin for vitamin B12).
The improved assays must combine high analytical specificity, sensitivity and robustness with a functional analytical range matched to the physiological values expected in the target populations&nbsp;(women of reproductive age, including during pregnancy and lactation, preschool-age children and older adults). Assays must remain low-cost (no more than US$20 for all analytes measured in duplicate) and require very small sample volumes, preferably less than 10 µL of plasma or serum). The tests are intended for population surveillance rather than local clinical (point-of-care) use. They should be designed to run many samples in a single batch in a small number of national or regional reference laboratories. The goal is to reduce dependence on expensive, infrequent population surveys and on export of samples to specialized laboratories in high-income settings.
This challenge is structured around two alternatives,&nbsp;a minimum-scope approach and an optimistic-scope approach. Targets are aligned with the candidate <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/indicators_of_micronutrient_status_target_product_profile.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Target Product Profile</a> for this platform, and applicants will be held to the relevant performance, cost and instrument targets.
<div class="responsive-table"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Parameter</th>
<th>Alternative A - Minimum scope</th>
<th>Alternative B - Optimistic scope</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Analyte panel</td>
<td>Strengthen and modestly extend the current multiplex test. Measure: soluble transferrin receptor, ferritin, RBP4, thyroglobulin, plasma methyl-tetrahydrofolate (without cross-reactivity with folic acid; a complementary folic-acid-specific test may be proposed), holo-transcobalamin (without cross-reactivity with apo-transcobalamin and all-haptocorrin), CRP and AGP.</td>
<td>All Alternative A analytes, plus metabolites or proteins associated with vitamin B1 and B2 deficiency, and thyroid hormones. A complementary test for whole-folate vitamers in red blood cells may also be included, on a separate microtiter platform if needed.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sample volume</td>
<td>≤10 µL plasma/serum</td>
<td>≤5 µL plasma/serum. Other specimen types, such as dried blood spots (DBS), may also be addressed as optimistic scope; see note below. Response (not optimization) in twice that volume of whole blood from the same individuals should also be measured and reported, together with hematocrit.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Analytical Precision (CV)</td>
<td>&lt;20% CV total; &lt;15% within-run at the functional analytical sensitivity covering the expected physiological range of each analyte</td>
<td>&lt;10% CV total; &lt;8% within-run at the functional analytical sensitivity covering the expected physiological range of each analyte</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Analytical sensitivity (LoD)</td>
<td>sTfR: 2–30 mg/L&nbsp; Ferritin: 5–100 µg/L&nbsp; RBP4: 0.3–3.0 µmol/L&nbsp; Thyroglobulin: 10–100 µg/L&nbsp; Methyl-THF: 5–50 nmol/L&nbsp; Holo-transcobalamin: to be defined&nbsp; CRP: 1–30 mg/L&nbsp; AGP: 0.5–5 g/L&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
<td>sTfR: 1–40 mg/L&nbsp; Ferritin: 2–200 µg/L&nbsp; RBP4: 0.2–4.0 µmol/L&nbsp; Thyroglobulin: 5–300 µg/L&nbsp; Methyl-THF: 2–100 nmol/L&nbsp; RBC folate: 100–2000 nmol/L&nbsp; Holo-transcobalamin: to be defined&nbsp; CRP: 1–50 mg/L&nbsp; AGP: 0.25–5 g/L&nbsp; Thyroid hormones, B1, B2: as required for satisfactory diagnostic performance</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Accuracy (Bias / Trueness)</td>
<td>≤ 10% bias across the measuring range for all target analytes when tested against certified reference materials</td>
<td>≤ 5% bias across the measuring range for all target analytes when tested against certified reference materials</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Concordance&nbsp;</td>
<td>≥90% concordance when measured against, validated laboratory immunoassays or analytical gold standard methods, for all target analytes</td>
<td>≥95% concordance when measured against, validated laboratory immunoassays or analytical gold standard methods, for all target analytes</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cost target</td>
<td>≤US$20 per sample for all analytes measured in duplicate (i.e., 2 wells). This ceiling is per sample for the full panel in duplicate, not per analyte.</td>
<td>≤US$20 per sample for all analytes measured in duplicate (i.e., 2 wells). Optimistic stretch goal: ≤US$10 per sample for the full panel in duplicate.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Instrument</td>
<td>Bench-top signal-detection device, ≤US$30,000 per unit.</td>
<td>Bench-top signal-detection device, ≤US$25,000 per unit.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Funding &amp; term</td>
<td>Awards up to US$200,000 per project; grant term up to 12 months.</td>
<td>Awards up to US$800,000 per project; grant term up to 24 months. Budgets and terms evaluated per project and commensurate with scope.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div>
Note on dried blood spots:&nbsp;application of these assays to dried blood spots is a distinct downstream study to be undertaken once the tests are developed, and is not part of the core development scope of either alternative. Sample-volume targets are included&nbsp;to keep this pathway open. Applicants with an integrated, DBS-capable approach may optionally submit DBS-readiness data; such data are invited but will not be scored.
Specifically, the objectives of this challenge are to:
<ul>
<li>Improve the current multiplex test for immunological determination of nutritional-status analytes, overcoming standard heterogeneity, widening the functional analytical range to the expected physiological values, and maintaining simplicity and low cost (Alternatives A and B).</li>
<li>Extend the panel to bioindicators of vitamins B9 and B12&nbsp;by introducing novel binding molecules (Alternatives A and B).</li>
<li>Measure the nutritional status of vitamins B1 and B2&nbsp;using metabolites or proteins associated with their deficiency (Alternative B).</li>
<li>Develop an immunological or other binding-based test for total folate in red blood cells that gives results comparable to the microbiological assay, and maintain accuracy and precision from small plasma/serum volumes to enable later application to dried blood spots (Alternative B).</li>
<li>Maintain accuracy and precision using small plasma or serum volumes in order to enable later application to dried blood spots.</li>
</ul>
Funding Level
Awards depend on the alternative proposed:
<ul>
<li>Alternative A (minimum scope):&nbsp;awards up to US$200,000 per project, with a grant term of up to 12 months.</li>
<li>Alternative B (optimistic scope):&nbsp;awards up to US$800,000 per project, with a grant term of up to 24 months, evaluated per project.</li>
</ul>
Application budgets should be commensurate with the scope of work proposed. Indirect costs may be included in the budget, up to a maximum of 15% of the total budget (subject to the&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/Documents/Indirect_Cost_Policy.pdf" target="_blank" title="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/indirect_cost_policy.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer">Gates Foundation's indirect cost policy</a>).
Eligibility Criteria
This initiative is open to nonprofit organizations, for-profit companies, international organizations, government agencies and academic institutions. We particularly encourage applications led by women or in collaboration with women-led organizations, and applications from or in collaboration with institutions based in low- and middle-income countries. Only applicants applying through a legally recognized corporate entity are eligible. Because no single institution is likely to hold all the necessary expertise, collaboration among groups working in human metabolism, biomolecule characterization and immunology is strongly encouraged.
We are looking for proposals that:
<ul>
<li>Address a clearly defined analyte, performance or cost target within the scope of this challenge.</li>
<li>Demonstrate a novel or innovative approach to extending multiplex analytical coverage (e.g. new analyte-binding molecules).</li>
<li>Demonstrate collaboration and coordination among institutions with complementary expertise.</li>
<li>Can realistically achieve the objectives within the proposed timeframe.</li>
<li>Include a feasible implementation plan for low- and middle-income reference laboratories, with attention to affordability and end-user needs.</li>
<li>Show potential for scalability at low cost and assure the future supply of equipment and reagents.</li>
<li>Offer ongoing technical assistance and equipment maintenance.</li>
</ul>
We will not fund proposals that:
<ul>
<li>Fall outside the thematic focus of this RFP.</li>
<li>Offer incremental improvements without meaningful innovation.</li>
<li>Are commercialization-only efforts.</li>
<li>Constitute basic research without translational relevance.</li>
<li>Focus on excluded geographies or populations.</li>
</ul>

Micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among vulnerable groups in low- and middle-income countries (chiefly women of child-bearing age, especially during pregnancy and lactation, preschool-age children and older adults), constrain social and economic development and limit progress toward good health and well-being. These deficiencies may arise from insufficient dietary intake, from concurrent disease or parasitism, or from genetic traits that affect MN metabolism. Diagnosing their causes, magnitude, severity, and population prevalence is essential for designing appropriate treatments and interventions, and for monitoring their effectiveness and safety.

Multiplex Platforms to Assess Indicators of Micronutrient Status Inflammation and Infectious Disease

Innovations in Decentralized Pan-Orthoebolavirus Diagnostics

This Grand Challenge seeks specific, field-ready innovations in pan-Orthoebolavirus diagnostics that address the concrete gaps exposed by the 2026 outbreak and prepare the global community for the next one. We are seeking well-defined solutions to well-defined problems, from teams with the specific expertise, access, and partnerships to deliver them.

Innovations in Decentralized Pan-Orthoebolavirus Diagnostics

**NOTE: This opportunity was open only to participants who registered for the 2026 Grand Challenges Annual Meeting.Before applying to this Grand Challenges request for proposals (RFP), applicants should familiarize themselves with the supporting documents, including the&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/sample-terms-and-conditions.pdf" target="_blank">terms and conditions of the Gates Foundation</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/gcam_2026_cta_rules_and_guidelines.pdf" target="_blank">Rules and Guidelines</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/gcam_2026_cta_application_instructions.pdf" target="_blank">Application Instructions</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/gcam_2026_cta_faqs.pdf" target="_blank">Frequently Asked Questions</a>.<h2>The Opportunity</h2>The Grand Challenges Annual Meeting (GCAM) fosters innovation and international collaboration to address the biggest challenges in global health and development. It has been held in&nbsp;<a href="https://grandchallenges.org/annual-meeting" target="_blank">13 countries</a>&nbsp;over the past 21 years and in a virtual format for three years. The 2026 meeting continues the Annual Meeting's goal of supporting a global community of problem solvers who work together to set an innovation agenda and advance breakthrough science – to go further and faster together.<h2>The Challenge</h2>This Call-to-Action provides an opportunity for those registered for the 2026 GCAM to take action based on ideas they develop and people they engage with during the meeting. As noted by past applicants in their submitted proposals, the meeting provides diverse opportunities to combine expertise and perspectives to accelerate the impact of what would otherwise be separate efforts by individual investigators. The&nbsp;<a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/grants/JTdCJTIyc29ydCUyMiUzQSUyMmRlc2NlbmRpbmclMjIlMkMlMjJzb3J0RmllbGQlMjIlM0ElMjJkYXRlJTIyJTJDJTIybnVtYmVyUGVyUGFnZSUyMiUzQTEwMCUyQyUyMnBhZ2VOdW1iZXIlMjIlM0EwJTdE/JTdCJTIyeWVhcnMlMjIlM0ElNUIlNUQlMkMlMjJjaGFsbGVuZ2VzJTIyJTNBJTVCJTIyMTI5JTIyJTVEJTJDJTIydGVybXMlMjIlM0ElNUIlNUQlMkMlMjJpbml0aWF0aXZlcyUyMiUzQSU1QiU1RCUyQyUyMmxvY2F0aW9ucyUyMiUzQSU1QiU1RCU3RA==" target="_blank">grants awarded</a>&nbsp;for past Call-to-Action opportunities show this, and we hope this year’s meeting will similarly catalyze collaborative projects that yield tangible solutions to key problems by the end of the grant period.FundingWe will consider proposals for awards of up to $100,000 USD for individual pilot projects, or $200,000 for collaborative pilot projects, with a grant term of 18 months. Proposed budgets should be commensurate with the scale and complexity of the work. Indirect costs are allowable and must be included within the total requested funding, in accordance with the Gates Foundation’s&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/indirect_cost_policy.pdf" target="_blank">indirect cost policy</a>).Eligibility Criteria<ul><li data-list-item-id="e57008f9a5689eabb19d590946780bc75">Participants registered for the 2026 GCAM may submit one application as the Primary Applicant on behalf of an eligible affiliated organization for either a Pilot project or a Collaborative pilot project. Participants may serve as collaborators on multiple applications.</li><li data-list-item-id="e51a29de320e8f0bb53595662040e1e7d">Collaborative pilot proposals must involve participants from multiple institutions, and all collaborators must be registered participants in the 2026 GCAM. Priority will be given to new or newly expanded collaborations.</li><li data-list-item-id="e4dcfaffd9882b172ee962997e423711a">Applications are welcome from nonprofit organizations, for-profit companies, international organizations, government agencies, and academic institutions.</li><li data-list-item-id="e2e7166db7b420888484ef304128dc6e1">Individuals, as well as organizations classified as individuals for U.S. tax purposes, are not eligible to receive funding under this initiative.</li><li data-list-item-id="e0696b69a0802c03ba0d75ec716e0c734">We encourage proposals led by investigators based in low- and middle-income countries, as well as proposals led by women investigators and women-led institutions.</li></ul>We will give highest priority to proposals that:<ul><li data-list-item-id="ed3afd274e6da02fce9a93673c600516f">Contribute to partnership networks that elevate local perspectives and leadership, including projects led by investigators from low- and middle-income countries and balanced representation of women principal investigators.&nbsp;</li><li data-list-item-id="ebe01d53e5685584ed14067efab462e82">Are explicitly aligned with one eligible scientific track and the specific content presented within that track (see&nbsp;<a href="https://web.cvent.com/event/c1e08f5c-af38-4797-82a6-cc410245f1cb/websitePage:a65b32b2-0bf9-4476-8fb9-0761a872a471" target="_blank">meeting agenda</a>).&nbsp;</li><li data-list-item-id="e0ec597c8a36c0cb75b5065ac4f1c6e1c">Proposals should reflect ideas and collaborations developed through participation in the track sessions. Eligible scientific tracks for this RFP are listed below.</li></ul>Scientific tracks eligible for the Grand Challenges Annual Meeting Call-to-Action<ul><li class="ck-list-marker-italic" data-list-item-id="e8f54ec4bb39d09c0ba715ad6934ef850">Malaria: Innovation for Eradication</li><li class="ck-list-marker-italic" data-list-item-id="e1edce52c35432b2eeade698a42300bef">Next Generation Vaccines, Biologics and Platform Technologies to Accelerate Malaria Eradication</li><li class="ck-list-marker-italic" data-list-item-id="e18c561b45b47316f648da073cf5961f6">Dual Mission: Science Now + Ecosystems for the Future</li><li class="ck-list-marker-italic" data-list-item-id="e559edd647633131af8c1bcaac3c656a1">Evidence and Innovation for Impact in Women’s Health and Fetal Well-Being</li></ul>We will not consider funding approaches that:<ul><li data-list-item-id="eac2243f78dbecb774d23df3bc9c2dd67">Are not explicitly aligned with the content of one of the eligible meeting scientific tracks listed above.</li></ul>

2026 Grand Challenges Annual Meeting Call-to-Action

**NOTE: This opportunity is open only to participants who registered for the 2026 Grand Challenges Annual Meeting.
Before applying to this Grand Challenges request for proposals (RFP), applicants should familiarize themselves with the supporting documents, including the&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/sample-terms-and-conditions.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">terms and conditions of the Gates Foundation</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/gcam_2026_cta_rules_and_guidelines.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Rules and Guidelines</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/gcam_2026_cta_application_instructions.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Application Instructions</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/2026-grand-challenges-annual-meeting-call-action-frequently-asked-questions-faqs" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Frequently Asked Questions</a>.
<h2>The Opportunity</h2>
The Grand Challenges Annual Meeting (GCAM) fosters innovation and international collaboration to address the biggest challenges in global health and development. It has been held in&nbsp;<a href="https://grandchallenges.org/annual-meeting" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">13 countries</a>&nbsp;over the past 21 years and in a virtual format for three years. The 2026 meeting continues the Annual Meeting's goal of supporting a global community of problem solvers who work together to set an innovation agenda and advance breakthrough science – to go further and faster together.
<h2>The Challenge</h2>
This Call-to-Action provides an opportunity for those registered for the 2026 GCAM to take action based on ideas they develop and people they engage with during the meeting. As noted by past applicants in their submitted proposals, the meeting provides diverse opportunities to combine expertise and perspectives to accelerate the impact of what would otherwise be separate efforts by individual investigators. The&nbsp;<a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/grants/JTdCJTIyc29ydCUyMiUzQSUyMmRlc2NlbmRpbmclMjIlMkMlMjJzb3J0RmllbGQlMjIlM0ElMjJkYXRlJTIyJTJDJTIybnVtYmVyUGVyUGFnZSUyMiUzQTEwMCUyQyUyMnBhZ2VOdW1iZXIlMjIlM0EwJTdE/JTdCJTIyeWVhcnMlMjIlM0ElNUIlNUQlMkMlMjJjaGFsbGVuZ2VzJTIyJTNBJTVCJTIyMTI5JTIyJTVEJTJDJTIydGVybXMlMjIlM0ElNUIlNUQlMkMlMjJpbml0aWF0aXZlcyUyMiUzQSU1QiU1RCUyQyUyMmxvY2F0aW9ucyUyMiUzQSU1QiU1RCU3RA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">grants awarded</a>&nbsp;for past Call-to-Action opportunities show this, and we hope this year’s meeting will similarly catalyze collaborative projects that yield tangible solutions to key problems by the end of the grant period.
Funding
We will consider proposals for awards of up to $100,000 USD for individual pilot projects, or $200,000 for collaborative pilot projects, with a grant term of 18 months. Proposed budgets should be commensurate with the scale and complexity of the work. Indirect costs are allowable and must be included within the total requested funding, in accordance with the Gates Foundation’s&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/indirect_cost_policy.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">indirect cost policy</a>).
Eligibility Criteria
<ul>
<li>Participants registered for the 2026 GCAM may submit one application as the Primary Applicant on behalf of an eligible affiliated organization for either a Pilot project or a Collaborative pilot project. Participants may serve as collaborators on multiple applications.</li>
<li>Collaborative pilot proposals must involve participants from multiple institutions, and all collaborators must be registered participants in the 2026 GCAM. Priority will be given to new or newly expanded collaborations.</li>
<li>Applications are welcome from nonprofit organizations, for-profit companies, international organizations, government agencies, and academic institutions.</li>
<li>Individuals, as well as organizations classified as individuals for U.S. tax purposes, are not eligible to receive funding under this initiative.</li>
<li>We encourage proposals led by investigators based in low- and middle-income countries, as well as proposals led by women investigators and women-led institutions.</li>
</ul>
We will give highest priority to proposals that:
<ul>
<li>Contribute to partnership networks that elevate local perspectives and leadership, including projects led by investigators from low- and middle-income countries and balanced representation of women principal investigators.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Are explicitly aligned with one eligible scientific track and the specific content presented within that track (see&nbsp;<a href="https://web.cvent.com/event/c1e08f5c-af38-4797-82a6-cc410245f1cb/websitePage:a65b32b2-0bf9-4476-8fb9-0761a872a471" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">meeting agenda</a>).&nbsp;</li>
<li>Proposals should reflect ideas and collaborations developed through participation in the track sessions. Eligible scientific tracks for this RFP are listed below.</li>
</ul>
Scientific tracks eligible for the Grand Challenges Annual Meeting Call-to-Action
<ul>
<li>Malaria: Innovation for Eradication</li>
<li>Next Generation Vaccines, Biologics and Platform Technologies to Accelerate Malaria Eradication</li>
<li>Dual Mission: Science Now + Ecosystems for the Future</li>
<li>Evidence and Innovation for Impact in Women’s Health and Fetal Well-Being</li>
</ul>
We will not consider funding approaches that:
<ul>
<li>Are not explicitly aligned with the content of one of the eligible meeting scientific tracks listed above.</li>
</ul>

This Call-to-Action provides an opportunity for those registered for the 2025 Grand Challenges Annual Meeting to take action based on ideas they develop and people they engage with during the virtual meeting.

Grand Challenges South Africa

Innovations in Cost-Disruptive Tools for Diagnosis and Screening

This Grand Challenge seeks cost-disruptive tools for diagnosis and screening, defined as devices that amortize capital to near-zero incremental cost and consumable $1-class tests that materially reset the cost curve in LMICs while meeting real-world deployment constraints. Accordingly, this initiative aims to translate these cost-disruptive concepts into scalable solutions across high-priority disease areas.

Grand Challenges India

Breakthrough Solutions and Cost-Disruptive Innovations for Screening and Diagnosis

The Cost-disruptive novel screening and diagnosis tools program under GCI seeks transformative novel tools or approaches or devices and ultra-low-cost solutions for screening and/or diagnostics prioritizing near point-of-care and low-incremental-cost formats that can meet real-world operational constraints and really disrupt the accessibility and availability landscape. Here, cost-disruptive screening tools and diagnostics are defined as solutions with a target price point of approximately INR100 or US$1 per test or devices with negligible incremental cost per use. This initiative aims to advance cross-sector, platform, and multimodal solutions to enable scalable screening, same-visit decision-making, and translating the cost-disruptive concepts into scalable solutions across high-priority disease areas.

Notice: Applicants will be informed of the decision regarding their project proposals by the end of August 2026.Before applying to this Grand Challenges request for proposals (RFP), applicants should familiarize themselves with the supporting documents, including the <a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/sample-terms-and-conditions.pdf" target="_blank">terms and conditions of the Gates Foundation</a>, the <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/global_burden_of_diarrheal_diseases_rules_and_guidelines.pdf" target="_blank">Rules and Guidelines</a>, <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/global_burden_of_diarrheal_diseases_application_instructions.pdf" target="_blank">Application Instructions</a>, and <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/estimating-global-burden-diarrheal-diseases-frequently-asked-questions-faqs" target="_blank">Frequently Asked Questions.</a>If you plan to apply to this RFP, we will host a dedicated <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/705ad6ae-3dba-4300-960a-24954b5f9f04@296b3838-4bd5-496c-bd4b-f456ea743b74" target="_blank">webinar</a> on May 14, 2026, 8:00-9:00 a.m. US PST. The session will provide an overview of the RFP and include time for questions. To attend, please register and <a href="https://forms.office.com/r/DdDppwuAFU" target="_blank">submit your questions in advance</a>. A recording will be posted on the challenge page following the session for those unable to join live.Please note that the webinar has reached full capacity and registration is now closed. A recording will be posted on this page within 24 hours after the event concludes.The Gates Foundation invites proposals to generate independent, policy-relevant estimates of the global burden of diarrheal diseases, with a focus on mortality and morbidity in children under five living in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).<h2>Background</h2>Reliable burden estimates are essential for prioritizing disease syndromes and pathogens and for guiding investments in prevention, treatment, and product development. However, estimating diarrheal mortality and morbidity and pathogen-specific burden remains challenging because direct mortality and morbidity data are limited in many LMIC settings, etiologic data are uneven and often derived from studies of cases rather than deaths, and attribution methods must reconcile imperfect diagnostics, multiple pathogens, incomplete surveillance, and sparse location-specific evidence. Modelled estimates of global burden of disease can help overcome data sparsity, and multiple independent estimates would be valuable for triangulating estimates of burden and understanding key drivers of differences. Differences across existing estimates may arise from variation in data inputs, mortality envelopes, etiologic attribution methods, model structure, and assumptions.The Foundation seeks to support independent estimation efforts that inform the overall burden of diarrhea and pathogen-specific contributions, clarify key sources of uncertainty, and produce decision-useful estimates for policymakers, researchers, and global health partners.Multiple burden estimates would help inform the relative importance of diarrhea as a cause of mortality and morbidity in children under five and clarify which pathogens are responsible for the largest share of burden.<h2>The Challenge</h2>Through this Grand Challenge, the Foundation seeks to support organizations with strong epidemiologic and quantitative modeling capabilities to produce credible, transparent, and decision-useful estimates of diarrheal disease burden in LMICs.Applicants should propose approaches that can generate a minimum core set of estimates for the year 2025 and, where feasible, build longer-term analytic capacity in LMICs.Scope of WorkProposals must include plans to generate, at minimum:<ul><li data-list-item-id="e59ce878796907152dfcc7db8744bc6ae">Country-specific estimates of total diarrheal mortality burden in children under five.</li><li data-list-item-id="ee55b91df2f18170c107e6cf8ec9a14e3">Country-specific pathogen-attributed mortality burden for children under five.</li><li data-list-item-id="e6576d2d8fd4a798889d593a40830e899">Estimates reported as both total number of diarrhea-attributed deaths, pathogen-specific fractions, and mortality incidence rates, centered on 2025, using the most recent available data and appropriate methods for projection, interpolation, or extrapolation where needed.</li><li data-list-item-id="e85981683ad46ae75e3651c1a546d0f0e">When possible, country-specific estimates of total and/or pathogen-attributed morbidity burden, measured as all cause or pathogen-specific disease cases, severe disease cases, or hospitalizations and presented as the total numbers, pathogen-specific fractions, and/or incidence rates.</li><li data-list-item-id="e778fdcc2adcc8d939243468925fce0e0">Estimates reported as point estimates with confidence/uncertainty intervals.</li><li data-list-item-id="ebd6420a90b76726e46252ebec4a653bd">Geographic scope: may include proposed estimates for a single country, region, all LMICs, or global. While proposals may focus on a single country, region, all LMICs, or global estimates, preference will be given to proposals focused on geographies where diarrheal mortality is expected to be highest or where improved estimates of both mortality and morbidity would have particularly high programmatic relevance, including but not limited to India, Nigeria, and sub-Saharan Africa.</li></ul>We will consider fully independent modeling frameworks or partial re-estimation based on existing burden estimates and using alternative assumptions or datasets. Proposals must provide sufficient technical documentation for external review and should include planned approaches for etiologic attribution of both disease cases and deaths, including plans for adjudicating coinfections / multiple pathogens detected, at a minimum.At minimum, proposals should include estimates for the following pathogens:<ul><li data-list-item-id="ef913d690fc6d5be9b872a1ee5a6a82fc">Rotavirus</li><li data-list-item-id="ee4e35541c0b0a8b039f4a3e9b88f1a9c">Shigella</li><li data-list-item-id="e062c939e94012b47f81fb114a0ad30e3">Adenovirus 40/41</li><li data-list-item-id="e0a6d43d3105a57fcffd486048cd867fc">Norovirus GII</li><li data-list-item-id="e667158388ee2879e3eaa9bc7b0d5c285">ST-ETEC</li><li data-list-item-id="ea2dd162fb27bc10146616ea9f04e10fd">Cholera (endemic)</li><li data-list-item-id="e4af640003b6c76ebd5e8dbe93cc09d20">Cryptosporidium</li><li data-list-item-id="e3d00f0285c5f24ae9d899c245dbf096f">Campylobacter</li></ul>Applicants may also propose additional analyses beyond the minimum required set, such as:<ul><li data-list-item-id="e8ad3ca56cc2f505a9b0fc740cda65f39">Expansion to broader age groups</li><li data-list-item-id="eb4d1315975d5bdf3422e6bc56d58ee47">Expansion to additional diarrhea etiologies</li><li data-list-item-id="e34bd9e0a0434bf02e8b93b142eb9ddc9">Additional burden outputs, including DALYs or costs</li><li data-list-item-id="e56723d174697f4e51aceca20e77edaf0">Historical trend analyses</li><li data-list-item-id="ec3a273eacd0923d644d1391710cff010">Regional or global geographic aggregation</li></ul>However, all proposals must clearly deliver the minimum required output set above.Applicants should recognize that this opportunity is intended not only to produce burden estimates, but also to improve confidence in the evidence base used for priority setting. We are seeking outputs that can inform syndrome and pathogen prioritization and that are interpretable by global and country decision-makers. Proposals should therefore address how resulting estimates will be interpreted, compared with existing approaches, and made useful to stakeholders. There should also be clear communication of uncertainty and sensitivity to assumptions.What we are looking for:The Foundation is particularly interested in proposals that demonstrate:<ul><li data-list-item-id="e37189ccc85c6b2fc2e88c7186f0c9d26">Scientific rigor and methodological transparency</li><li data-list-item-id="eada5128925807ad8411a99d7bbe875d8">Credible alternatives or complements to existing estimates (e.g. IHME Global Burden of Disease)</li><li data-list-item-id="e4d1d84685a6ffbb7f281fa76bfdb2ef6">Strong use of available epidemiologic, surveillance, and etiologic data</li><li data-list-item-id="e9bbe7fb635d2e9148c28960b045c9007">Clear assumptions and sensitivity analyses</li><li data-list-item-id="e0cd83887db274187a67cf701fdb2cf0f">Practical relevance for decision-makers in global health and child survival</li><li data-list-item-id="e4129ff85f3df521a7121ffb5b9bb4540">Potential to strengthen analytic and modeling capacity in LMIC institutions or partnerships</li></ul>We will not fund proposals that:<ul><li data-list-item-id="e5fa12a3ea4a96b672ccc82f4cd1e5784">Do not focus on diarrheal burden estimation</li><li data-list-item-id="e875aa76f84644197017165805f575510">Do not include mortality estimates for children under five</li><li data-list-item-id="e14ac053261b187c031b45ffa2147e0e6">Do not provide a clear methodological approach for pathogen attribution</li><li data-list-item-id="ee8c3735f3f41009cbfc02c70239e0e78">Rely primarily on literature review without a substantive analytic plan</li><li data-list-item-id="ea2175241bd18ce3cd0d1c13aede36035">Do not specify underlying data sources and handling of uncertainty</li><li data-list-item-id="ea44318b1c25a083d37d15c33bf213ca1">Are intervention studies or surveillance implementation</li><li data-list-item-id="e97a900ea2f802faa763b563f8f229d30">Do not clearly explain how outputs will improve on, complement, or interrogate existing burden estimates</li><li data-list-item-id="e557cb167778bf212059dfa38f4cf6f4c">Are not submitted by an LMIC-based institution, led by an LMIC institution in partnership, or part of a global consortium with meaningful LMIC partner engagement&nbsp;</li><li data-list-item-id="e69d4d710bab4fc406de45b5f8dac7787">Do not explicitly address how they will generate estimates for the minimum required outputs</li></ul>EligibilityThis opportunity is open to research institutes, nonprofit organizations, for-profit companies, international organizations, government agencies, and academic institutions. with demonstrated expertise in disease burden estimation, epidemiology, biostatistics, and related quantitative methods.We welcome proposals from:<ul><li data-list-item-id="ef335880294ce9ba9f69311a83d223915">LMIC-based institutions</li><li data-list-item-id="e7578e97ae8bc7a5cccf4d092a4058f23">Partnerships led by LMIC institutions</li><li data-list-item-id="e0ee151e80f95b6ed3cd74e1d895366e2">Global consortia that include meaningful LMIC partner engagement and capacity development</li></ul>Applications that pair high-quality analytic output with intentional LMIC capacity building are especially encouraged.Funding LevelWe will consider applications requesting up to $1.5 million USD per project, with a maximum grant duration of two years. Proposed budgets should be commensurate with the scale and complexity of the work. Indirect costs are allowable and must be included within the total requested funding, in accordance with the Gates Foundation’s <a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/indirect_cost_policy.pdf" target="_blank">indirect cost policy</a>).

Estimating the Global Burden of Diarrheal Diseases

Before applying to this Grand Challenges request for proposals (RFP), applicants should familiarize themselves with the supporting documents, including the <a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/sample-terms-and-conditions.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">terms and conditions of the Gates Foundation</a>, the <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/global_burden_of_diarrheal_diseases_rules_and_guidelines.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Rules and Guidelines</a>, <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/global_burden_of_diarrheal_diseases_application_instructions.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Application Instructions</a>, and <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/estimating-global-burden-diarrheal-diseases-frequently-asked-questions-faqs" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Frequently Asked Questions.</a>
If you plan to apply to this RFP, we will host a dedicated <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/705ad6ae-3dba-4300-960a-24954b5f9f04@296b3838-4bd5-496c-bd4b-f456ea743b74" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">webinar</a> on May 14, 2026, 8:00-9:00 a.m. US PST. The session will provide an overview of the RFP and include time for questions. To attend, please register and <a href="https://forms.office.com/r/DdDppwuAFU" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">submit your questions in advance</a>. A recording will be posted on the challenge page following the session for those unable to join live.
Please note that the webinar has reached full capacity and registration is now closed. A recording will be posted on this page within 24 hours after the event concludes.
The Gates Foundation invites proposals to generate independent, policy-relevant estimates of the global burden of diarrheal diseases, with a focus on mortality and morbidity in children under five living in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
<h2>Background</h2>
Reliable burden estimates are essential for prioritizing disease syndromes and pathogens and for guiding investments in prevention, treatment, and product development. However, estimating diarrheal mortality and morbidity and pathogen-specific burden remains challenging because direct mortality and morbidity data are limited in many LMIC settings, etiologic data are uneven and often derived from studies of cases rather than deaths, and attribution methods must reconcile imperfect diagnostics, multiple pathogens, incomplete surveillance, and sparse location-specific evidence. Modelled estimates of global burden of disease can help overcome data sparsity, and multiple independent estimates would be valuable for triangulating estimates of burden and understanding key drivers of differences. Differences across existing estimates may arise from variation in data inputs, mortality envelopes, etiologic attribution methods, model structure, and assumptions.
The Foundation seeks to support independent estimation efforts that inform the overall burden of diarrhea and pathogen-specific contributions, clarify key sources of uncertainty, and produce decision-useful estimates for policymakers, researchers, and global health partners.
Multiple burden estimates would help inform the relative importance of diarrhea as a cause of mortality and morbidity in children under five and clarify which pathogens are responsible for the largest share of burden.
<h2>The Challenge</h2>
Through this Grand Challenge, the Foundation seeks to support organizations with strong epidemiologic and quantitative modeling capabilities to produce credible, transparent, and decision-useful estimates of diarrheal disease burden in LMICs.
Applicants should propose approaches that can generate a minimum core set of estimates for the year 2025 and, where feasible, build longer-term analytic capacity in LMICs.
Scope of Work
Proposals must include plans to generate, at minimum:
<ul>
<li>Country-specific estimates of total diarrheal mortality burden in children under five.</li>
<li>Country-specific pathogen-attributed mortality burden for children under five.</li>
<li>Estimates reported as both total number of diarrhea-attributed deaths, pathogen-specific fractions, and mortality incidence rates, centered on 2025, using the most recent available data and appropriate methods for projection, interpolation, or extrapolation where needed.</li>
<li>When possible, country-specific estimates of total and/or pathogen-attributed morbidity burden, measured as all cause or pathogen-specific disease cases, severe disease cases, or hospitalizations and presented as the total numbers, pathogen-specific fractions, and/or incidence rates.</li>
<li>Estimates reported as point estimates with confidence/uncertainty intervals.</li>
<li>Geographic scope: may include proposed estimates for a single country, region, all LMICs, or global. While proposals may focus on a single country, region, all LMICs, or global estimates, preference will be given to proposals focused on geographies where diarrheal mortality is expected to be highest or where improved estimates of both mortality and morbidity would have particularly high programmatic relevance, including but not limited to India, Nigeria, and sub-Saharan Africa.</li>
</ul>
We will consider fully independent modeling frameworks or partial re-estimation based on existing burden estimates and using alternative assumptions or datasets. Proposals must provide sufficient technical documentation for external review and should include planned approaches for etiologic attribution of both disease cases and deaths, including plans for adjudicating coinfections / multiple pathogens detected, at a minimum.
At minimum, proposals should include estimates for the following pathogens:
<ul>
<li>Rotavirus</li>
<li>Shigella</li>
<li>Adenovirus 40/41</li>
<li>Norovirus GII</li>
<li>ST-ETEC</li>
<li>Cholera (endemic)</li>
<li>Cryptosporidium</li>
<li>Campylobacter</li>
</ul>
Applicants may also propose additional analyses beyond the minimum required set, such as:
<ul>
<li>Expansion to broader age groups</li>
<li>Expansion to additional diarrhea etiologies</li>
<li>Additional burden outputs, including DALYs or costs</li>
<li>Historical trend analyses</li>
<li>Regional or global geographic aggregation</li>
</ul>
However, all proposals must clearly deliver the minimum required output set above.
Applicants should recognize that this opportunity is intended not only to produce burden estimates, but also to improve confidence in the evidence base used for priority setting. We are seeking outputs that can inform syndrome and pathogen prioritization and that are interpretable by global and country decision-makers. Proposals should therefore address how resulting estimates will be interpreted, compared with existing approaches, and made useful to stakeholders. There should also be clear communication of uncertainty and sensitivity to assumptions.
What we are looking for:
The Foundation is particularly interested in proposals that demonstrate:
<ul>
<li>Scientific rigor and methodological transparency</li>
<li>Credible alternatives or complements to existing estimates (e.g. IHME Global Burden of Disease)</li>
<li>Strong use of available epidemiologic, surveillance, and etiologic data</li>
<li>Clear assumptions and sensitivity analyses</li>
<li>Practical relevance for decision-makers in global health and child survival</li>
<li>Potential to strengthen analytic and modeling capacity in LMIC institutions or partnerships</li>
</ul>
We will not fund proposals that:
<ul>
<li>Do not focus on diarrheal burden estimation</li>
<li>Do not include mortality estimates for children under five</li>
<li>Do not provide a clear methodological approach for pathogen attribution</li>
<li>Rely primarily on literature review without a substantive analytic plan</li>
<li>Do not specify underlying data sources and handling of uncertainty</li>
<li>Are intervention studies or surveillance implementation</li>
<li>Do not clearly explain how outputs will improve on, complement, or interrogate existing burden estimates</li>
<li>Are not submitted by an LMIC-based institution, led by an LMIC institution in partnership, or part of a global consortium with meaningful LMIC partner engagement&nbsp;</li>
<li>Do not explicitly address how they will generate estimates for the minimum required outputs</li>
</ul>
Eligibility
This opportunity is open to research institutes, nonprofit organizations, for-profit companies, international organizations, government agencies, and academic institutions. with demonstrated expertise in disease burden estimation, epidemiology, biostatistics, and related quantitative methods.
We welcome proposals from:
<ul>
<li>LMIC-based institutions</li>
<li>Partnerships led by LMIC institutions</li>
<li>Global consortia that include meaningful LMIC partner engagement and capacity development</li>
</ul>
Applications that pair high-quality analytic output with intentional LMIC capacity building are especially encouraged.
Funding Level
We will consider applications requesting up to $1.5 million USD per project, with a maximum grant duration of two years. Proposed budgets should be commensurate with the scale and complexity of the work. Indirect costs are allowable and must be included within the total requested funding, in accordance with the Gates Foundation’s <a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/indirect_cost_policy.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">indirect cost policy</a>).

The Gates Foundation invites proposals to generate independent, policy-relevant estimates of the global burden of diarrheal diseases, with a focus on mortality and morbidity in children under five living in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Establishment of an African Procurement and Supply Chain Observatory for Public Health and R and D Reagents and Laboratory Supplies

**NOTE: Application for this opportunity was by invitation only.

Establishment of an African Procurement and Supply Chain Observatory for Public Health and R&amp;D Reagents and Laboratory Supplies

Notice: Applicants will be informed of the decision regarding their project proposals by the end of August 2026.Before applying to this Grand Challenges request for proposals (RFP), applicants should familiarize themselves with the supporting documents, including the <a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/sample-terms-and-conditions.pdf" target="_blank">terms and conditions of the Gates Foundation</a>, the <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/strategies_to_improve_fortification_programs_rules_and_guidelines.pdf" target="_blank">Rules and Guidelines</a>, <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/strategies_to_improve_fortification_programs_application_instructions.pdf" target="_blank">Application Instructions</a>, and <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/addressing-physiological-barriers-micronutrient-absorption-fortified-foods-frequently-asked" target="_blank">Frequently Asked Questions</a>.If you are planning to apply to this RFP, we will be hosting a dedicated <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/56546af0-f206-4898-9303-a5ebfac6e9a7@296b3838-4bd5-496c-bd4b-f456ea743b74" target="_blank">webinar</a> on April 2, from 8:30-9:30 AM Pacific Time. This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the RFP details and an opportunity to have your questions answered. To participate in the <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/56546af0-f206-4898-9303-a5ebfac6e9a7@296b3838-4bd5-496c-bd4b-f456ea743b74" target="_blank">webinar</a>, please register and <a href="https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=ODhrKdVLbEm9S_RW6nQ7dMKiReMZsCJFmCa42S92Da1UNkJHR1BPNkhSMVNDVDUwNEdKRlBQUExRVS4u" target="_blank">submit your questions in advance</a>. If you cannot attend live, the webinar will be recorded and available on this challenge page after the session.<h2>Background</h2>Despite the proven potential of large-scale food fortification to address micronutrient deficiencies, biological constraints may limit its impact in high-burden settings. Chronic inflammation - driven by recurrent infections, environmental enteric dysfunction (EED), poor sanitation, metabolic disorders, or other systemic stressors - can impair intestinal absorption and alter nutrient metabolism. For example, inflammation-induced upregulation of hepcidin reduces iron absorption and mobilization, diminishing the effectiveness of iron fortification even when dietary intake is sufficient. Inflammation and gut barrier dysfunction can also compromise the absorption of other micronutrients, including zinc and fat-soluble vitamins. In parallel, alterations in the gut microbiome may influence micronutrient bioavailability through competitive uptake, reduced endogenous vitamin synthesis, and amplification of mucosal inflammation. These physiological barriers are particularly salient in low-resource contexts where infection and undernutrition co-occur.<h2>The Challenge</h2>We are soliciting, through this Grand Challenges RFP, applications that advance innovative approaches to better understand, measure, and mitigate infection, inflammation- and microbiome-mediated constraints that limit the impact of fortification interventions. The goal is to overcome key biological barriers and unlock the full potential of fortification programs to accelerate equitable gains in nutrition and health. Solutions could include novel biomarkers to identify populations with impaired nutrient utilization, fortificant formulations optimized for inflammatory states, adjunctive strategies to restore gut function, or integrated interventions that address infection, gut health, and micronutrient delivery simultaneously. Addressing these biological barriers is essential to unlocking the full potential of fortification programs and accelerating equitable gains in nutrition and health.The challenge aims to:<ul><li data-list-item-id="ebbf9b74f0f4b3cba5cc790cb97037c82">Identify the physiological parameters that can be modulated to improve micronutrient absorption.</li><li data-list-item-id="e537085a76e843ff964c1a1c9ea14503b">Offer a solution for delivery and effective absorption of micronutrients such as iron in a target population where nutritional interventions have not been effective.</li><li data-list-item-id="e0a78682579355ebea296ee3e5305041b">All stages of development would be accepted provided the potential impact is clearly defined. We will particularly consider new innovative product ideas, proof of concept and discovery of new approaches to achieve more effective fortification. The solution is not limited to a product; it can also be a strategic approach and is open to discovery R&amp;D program proposals to address unanswered scientific questions.&nbsp;</li></ul>Funding LevelWe will consider proposals for awards of up to $250,000 USD for each project, with a grant term of 18 months. Application budgets should be commensurate with the scope of work proposed. Indirect costs will be considered and should be included in the budget for the up to $250,000 USD award (subject to the&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/Documents/Indirect_Cost_Policy.pdf" target="_blank" title="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/indirect_cost_policy.pdf">Gates Foundation's indirect cost policy</a>).Eligibility CriteriaThis initiative is open globally to nonprofit organizations, for-profit companies, international organizations, government agencies and academic institutions. Multi stakeholder collaborations are encouraged. Individuals and organizations classified as individuals for U.S. tax purposes are not eligible to receive an award from the foundation as part of this initiative.&nbsp;We are looking for proposals that consider:&nbsp;<ul><li class="ck-list-marker-bold" data-list-item-id="eb607a653256058a11e5a63da8385a14b">Clear framing of the problem:<ul><li data-list-item-id="e3366a9d1df5a73525d287063efd10ef2">Explicit articulation of how inflammation, infection, EED, metabolic conditions, or gut dysbiosis limit micronutrient absorption and utilization.</li><li data-list-item-id="ed397a35dea94b09b29f52c7983383536">Defined target population and context where fortification effectiveness is currently constrained.</li></ul></li><li class="ck-list-marker-bold" data-list-item-id="e437c36f0afae274cec7d87b147c47e2a">Strong biological rationale<ul><li data-list-item-id="e93aedb43adab6d5442b4a7b431435981">Mechanistic understanding (e.g., hepcidin-mediated iron blockade, impaired fat absorption, microbiome–nutrient interactions).</li><li data-list-item-id="ecb11ad7574fca4909a2bed3ef0da573e">Clear linkage between proposed solution and the underlying physiological barrier.</li></ul></li><li class="ck-list-marker-bold" data-list-item-id="ebcd0d9f1d0ddaebeb8ee5f7b62823931">Innovative and testable solution<ul><li data-list-item-id="e5b60ac022d18dd7b4d9ba061f61161bf">Novel fortificant formulations, delivery approaches, or adjunctive therapies.</li><li data-list-item-id="eb4c6bee4cf43c6076db21804332ccb17">Microbiome-modulating, anti-inflammatory, or gut-repair strategies integrated with fortification.</li><li data-list-item-id="e4da126edd4a5e36144d8bd76bff8b761">Development or validation of practical biomarkers to identify or stratify affected populations.</li></ul></li><li class="ck-list-marker-bold" data-list-item-id="ebf9c1de13807d07b2d04aafa5683e719">Feasibility and scalability<ul><li data-list-item-id="eb0c280efafdb4f0d67b38d947239bd14">Practical pathway for integration into existing fortification platforms or delivery systems.</li><li data-list-item-id="e4c5af63cf8e8051dda2c3dbc03ed404d">Cost-effective design appropriate for low-resource settings.</li><li data-list-item-id="e70f405618b685eed86d33b0f5b6c9495">Consideration of regulatory, manufacturing, and supply chain implications.</li></ul></li><li class="ck-list-marker-bold" data-list-item-id="ef7500931145d483bea5f172b9dfac39e">Measurement and evaluation plan<ul><li data-list-item-id="e0b06d6936be0935dd06b3799b8816ecf">Clearly articulated theory of change with appropriate outcomes related to micronutrient absorption, status, and functional impact.</li><li data-list-item-id="eaf272c27b92b4fc2a377f907f01836b5">Inclusion of inflammation and/or gut function biomarkers where appropriate.</li><li data-list-item-id="e365fa60ddd7b8c9eb7ee59ff41192bc3">Rigorous study design with defined milestones and go/no-go criteria.</li></ul></li><li class="ck-list-marker-bold" data-list-item-id="ecbb5622f9b22d1bd967b101add43d81d">Equity and context relevance<ul><li data-list-item-id="e91fbb976e4578f8512ad8b386f289fca">Focus on populations with high burdens of infection, undernutrition, or systemic inflammation.</li><li data-list-item-id="e641012c386e96a42a56d7a6a6948e2df">Engagement with local partners and alignment with national nutrition strategies.</li></ul></li><li class="ck-list-marker-bold" data-list-item-id="ede926e51d60beb775a9377725b94e7c1">Risk assessment and mitigation<ul><li data-list-item-id="e96666468a7f637d0518ef77c68cd0e7e">Consideration of potential unintended consequences (e.g., microbiome disruption, pathogen proliferation, adverse nutrient interactions).</li><li data-list-item-id="ed53301c8ddd0c03ec298020f9e91592d">Defined strategy for mitigating and managing scientific and implementation risks.</li></ul></li><li class="ck-list-marker-bold" data-list-item-id="e6a8478a9c639d21e97eb4da7cbf4a4de">Team capability<ul><li data-list-item-id="e58bf1af0acafcce3be9f4a188b8057ec">Multidisciplinary expertise as required for the topic (nutrition, immunology, microbiome science, implementation science, product development).</li><li data-list-item-id="ebbde30ff10400cab2465b66ac74433bc">Demonstrated ability to translate discovery into scalable impact.</li></ul></li></ul>We will not fund proposals that focus on:<ul><li data-list-item-id="e16700856870d969e4d283470a571aa86">Agricultural and plant biology related topics of research.</li><li data-list-item-id="ea2d99c5397971a3f35d57873a6a617ac">Live biotherapeutics which will encounter regulatory challenges for use in food.</li><li data-list-item-id="e68a8e737a1df43d260580d7c2e872d3d">Public health data collection and population status assessment.</li><li data-list-item-id="effea6f6ce28119adb015095790017187">Policy making and advocacy.</li><li data-list-item-id="e6a034f23e8089cdb84c34e611da4f150">Commercialization and marketing solely.</li></ul>

Addressing Physiological Barriers to Micronutrient Absorption from Fortified Foods

Before applying to this Grand Challenges request for proposals (RFP), applicants should familiarize themselves with the supporting documents, including the <a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/sample-terms-and-conditions.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">terms and conditions of the Gates Foundation</a>, the <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/strategies_to_improve_fortification_programs_rules_and_guidelines.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Rules and Guidelines</a>, <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/sites/default/files/files/strategies_to_improve_fortification_programs_application_instructions.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Application Instructions</a>, and <a href="https://gcgh.grandchallenges.org/addressing-physiological-barriers-micronutrient-absorption-fortified-foods-frequently-asked" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Frequently Asked Questions</a>.
If you are planning to apply to this RFP, we will be hosting a dedicated <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/56546af0-f206-4898-9303-a5ebfac6e9a7@296b3838-4bd5-496c-bd4b-f456ea743b74" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">webinar</a> on April 2, from 8:30-9:30 AM Pacific Time. This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the RFP details and an opportunity to have your questions answered. To participate in the <a href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/56546af0-f206-4898-9303-a5ebfac6e9a7@296b3838-4bd5-496c-bd4b-f456ea743b74" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">webinar</a>, please register and <a href="https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=ODhrKdVLbEm9S_RW6nQ7dMKiReMZsCJFmCa42S92Da1UNkJHR1BPNkhSMVNDVDUwNEdKRlBQUExRVS4u" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">submit your questions in advance</a>. If you cannot attend live, the webinar will be recorded and available on this challenge page after the session.
<h2>Background</h2>
Despite the proven potential of large-scale food fortification to address micronutrient deficiencies, biological constraints may limit its impact in high-burden settings. Chronic inflammation - driven by recurrent infections, environmental enteric dysfunction (EED), poor sanitation, metabolic disorders, or other systemic stressors - can impair intestinal absorption and alter nutrient metabolism. For example, inflammation-induced upregulation of hepcidin reduces iron absorption and mobilization, diminishing the effectiveness of iron fortification even when dietary intake is sufficient. Inflammation and gut barrier dysfunction can also compromise the absorption of other micronutrients, including zinc and fat-soluble vitamins. In parallel, alterations in the gut microbiome may influence micronutrient bioavailability through competitive uptake, reduced endogenous vitamin synthesis, and amplification of mucosal inflammation. These physiological barriers are particularly salient in low-resource contexts where infection and undernutrition co-occur.
<h2>The Challenge</h2>
We are soliciting, through this Grand Challenges RFP, applications that advance innovative approaches to better understand, measure, and mitigate infection, inflammation- and microbiome-mediated constraints that limit the impact of fortification interventions. The goal is to overcome key biological barriers and unlock the full potential of fortification programs to accelerate equitable gains in nutrition and health. Solutions could include novel biomarkers to identify populations with impaired nutrient utilization, fortificant formulations optimized for inflammatory states, adjunctive strategies to restore gut function, or integrated interventions that address infection, gut health, and micronutrient delivery simultaneously. Addressing these biological barriers is essential to unlocking the full potential of fortification programs and accelerating equitable gains in nutrition and health.
The challenge aims to:
<ul>
<li>Identify the physiological parameters that can be modulated to improve micronutrient absorption.</li>
<li>Offer a solution for delivery and effective absorption of micronutrients such as iron in a target population where nutritional interventions have not been effective.</li>
<li>All stages of development would be accepted provided the potential impact is clearly defined. We will particularly consider new innovative product ideas, proof of concept and discovery of new approaches to achieve more effective fortification. The solution is not limited to a product; it can also be a strategic approach and is open to discovery R&amp;D program proposals to address unanswered scientific questions.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
Funding Level
We will consider proposals for awards of up to $250,000 USD for each project, with a grant term of 18 months. Application budgets should be commensurate with the scope of work proposed. Indirect costs will be considered and should be included in the budget for the up to $250,000 USD award (subject to the&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/Documents/Indirect_Cost_Policy.pdf" target="_blank" title="https://docs.gatesfoundation.org/documents/indirect_cost_policy.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer">Gates Foundation's indirect cost policy</a>).
Eligibility Criteria
This initiative is open globally to nonprofit organizations, for-profit companies, international organizations, government agencies and academic institutions. Multi stakeholder collaborations are encouraged. Individuals and organizations classified as individuals for U.S. tax purposes are not eligible to receive an award from the foundation as part of this initiative.&nbsp;
We are looking for proposals that consider:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Clear framing of the problem:
<ul>
<li>Explicit articulation of how inflammation, infection, EED, metabolic conditions, or gut dysbiosis limit micronutrient absorption and utilization.</li>
<li>Defined target population and context where fortification effectiveness is currently constrained.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Strong biological rationale
<ul>
<li>Mechanistic understanding (e.g., hepcidin-mediated iron blockade, impaired fat absorption, microbiome–nutrient interactions).</li>
<li>Clear linkage between proposed solution and the underlying physiological barrier.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Innovative and testable solution
<ul>
<li>Novel fortificant formulations, delivery approaches, or adjunctive therapies.</li>
<li>Microbiome-modulating, anti-inflammatory, or gut-repair strategies integrated with fortification.</li>
<li>Development or validation of practical biomarkers to identify or stratify affected populations.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Feasibility and scalability
<ul>
<li>Practical pathway for integration into existing fortification platforms or delivery systems.</li>
<li>Cost-effective design appropriate for low-resource settings.</li>
<li>Consideration of regulatory, manufacturing, and supply chain implications.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Measurement and evaluation plan
<ul>
<li>Clearly articulated theory of change with appropriate outcomes related to micronutrient absorption, status, and functional impact.</li>
<li>Inclusion of inflammation and/or gut function biomarkers where appropriate.</li>
<li>Rigorous study design with defined milestones and go/no-go criteria.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Equity and context relevance
<ul>
<li>Focus on populations with high burdens of infection, undernutrition, or systemic inflammation.</li>
<li>Engagement with local partners and alignment with national nutrition strategies.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Risk assessment and mitigation
<ul>
<li>Consideration of potential unintended consequences (e.g., microbiome disruption, pathogen proliferation, adverse nutrient interactions).</li>
<li>Defined strategy for mitigating and managing scientific and implementation risks.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Team capability
<ul>
<li>Multidisciplinary expertise as required for the topic (nutrition, immunology, microbiome science, implementation science, product development).</li>
<li>Demonstrated ability to translate discovery into scalable impact.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
We will not fund proposals that focus on:
<ul>
<li>Agricultural and plant biology related topics of research.</li>
<li>Live biotherapeutics which will encounter regulatory challenges for use in food.</li>
<li>Public health data collection and population status assessment.</li>
<li>Policy making and advocacy.</li>
<li>Commercialization and marketing solely.</li>
</ul>

We are soliciting applications that advance innovative approaches to better understand, measure, and mitigate infection, inflammation- and microbiome-mediated constraints that limit the impact of fortification interventions. The goal is to overcome key biological barriers and unlock the full potential of fortification programs to accelerate equitable gains in nutrition and health.