Features
This Grand Challenge is co-funded by the Gates Foundation and the Temasek Foundation, and will be managed by the United Nations Foundation.
This call supports the development of low-cost, simplified pathogen sequencing workflows for routine public health use in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), with the aim of reducing total sample-to-sequence costs to approximately US$1–10 per sample. Priority areas include viral pathogens, malaria, tuberculosis, and bacterial or microbial pathogens relevant to antimicrobial resistance and transmission surveillance.
The call prioritizes technological and methodological innovation in sequencing workflows rather than new sequencing hardware. Solutions should be compatible with existing platforms, simplify protocols, and be suitable for routine public health use in LMICs.
Projects are grouped into three tiers based on their stage of development:
- Tier 1 – Early-stage feasibility: Higher-risk or early-stage concepts focused on feasibility testing, assay or workflow prototyping, and initial validation of cost reduction.
- Tier 2 – Mid-stage development: Projects with preliminary evidence that aim to integrate and optimize the workflow, expand its applicability to additional pathogens, and generate robust performance and cost data.
- Tier 3 – Advanced development and validation: More mature solutions focused on refinement, optimization, and validation in real-world public health settings in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
Up to $300,000 (Tier 1), $600,000 (Tier 2), or $800,000 (Tier 3).
Requirements:
Open to research institutes, nonprofit organizations, for-profit companies, international organizations, government agencies, and academic institutions.
How to apply
Before applying, applicants should review the supporting documents for this Grand Challenge, including the rules and guidelines, application instructions, and frequently asked questions.