A $50 million Project NextGen competition to advance microneedle patch-based RNA vaccines.
BARDA calls on vaccine developers and patch makers to partner and accelerate new vaccine technologies.
About the prize
The Patch Forward Prize, part of Project NextGen, is a $50 million competition to advance microneedle patch-based RNA vaccines for COVID-19, seasonal influenza, and pandemic influenza. The Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) calls on vaccine developers and patch makers to partner and accelerate new vaccine technologies.
Timeline
The prize consists of three independent stages. The Concept Stage invites concept papers from all eligible entrants.
We are here
Prize launch
March 28, 2024
Concept Stage submission deadline
October 3, 2024
Concept Stage winner announcement
November-December 2024
Preclinical Stage launch
Early 2025
Clinical Stage launch
Mid 2025
Preclinical Stage ends
Late 2026
Clinical Stage ends
Mid 2028
Prize pool
$50 million
The Patch Forward Prize will award $50 million across three stages. The Concept Stage will award up to $8 million, with up to four winners receiving $2 million each.
Prize resources
Access resources to learn more about patch-based RNA vaccine development, including the technologies, product development, and regulatory requirements.