New World Screwworm Grand Challenge

The New World Screwworm (NWS) Grand Challenge is a federal funding opportunity launched by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), aimed at preventing the spread of the New World Screwworm into the United States. The program, announced under Assistance Listing Number 10.025, represents a significant federal initiative to mitigate the northward advancement of NWS by supporting innovative research and response efforts. As part of the USDA’s larger effort to bolster animal health and biosecurity, this challenge aligns with strategic national priorities, including the development of sterile fly production capacity and other novel solutions to halt the parasite's spread. APHIS has committed up to $100 million in total available funding and anticipates making approximately 20 awards, though the agency reserves the right to make fewer or no awards depending on application quality and strategic need. The core objective of the NWS Grand Challenge is to support projects that enhance preparedness, detection, control, and eradication strategies related to NWS. Eligible projects must focus on one of four priority areas: enhancing sterile NWS fly production; developing new traps and lures; expanding therapeutic and treatment options for animals; or advancing tools that bolster preparedness and response. These projects are expected to yield measurable improvements in early detection, treatment options, sterile fly production efficiency, and overall response readiness. In addition, APHIS is looking for projects that can provide both immediate impact as well as long-term innovations that could be adapted to other animal health programs. Funding under this program will be provided primarily through cooperative agreements for non-federal applicants and interagency agreements for federal entities. APHIS defines substantial involvement in the execution of funded projects, meaning Program Managers will regularly engage with recipients to provide guidance, ensure performance metrics are met, and offer technical assistance as needed. The period of performance for awarded projects is up to two years, with all work starting no earlier than May 1, 2026, and no later than June 1, 2026. Pre-award costs are not allowable, and extensions must be approved in writing. Awards are generally capped at $5 million; however, proposals that substantially advance program objectives may be awarded above this threshold. Eligibility for the NWS Grand Challenge is broad and includes U.S.-based and non-domestic entities such as colleges and universities, non-profit and for-profit organizations (including small businesses), tribal governments, local and state governments, emergency agencies, veterinary organizations, and federally funded research laboratories. Each application must address one funding priority topic and include specific required components: a work plan, financial plan, completed federal forms (e.g., SF-424, SF-424A), lobbying disclosures (as applicable), and any relevant indirect cost agreements. Applications must be submitted through the ezFedGrants system by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on February 23, 2026. Federal applicants must submit by email to [email protected]. Applications will be evaluated based on four weighted criteria: project relevance (35%), feasibility of success (25%), qualifications of the applicant team (20%), and cost effectiveness (20%). Proposals should present clear, measurable objectives with practical implementation plans, detailed financial justifications, and innovative solutions tailored to the funding priorities. APHIS may select proposals outside of rank order for strategic reasons. Selected applicants will receive notification via email and will be required to sign a Notice of Award within the ezFedGrants system before initiating project activities. In addition to the core submission and evaluation process, recipients are expected to submit quarterly performance and financial reports via ezFedGrants. These reports will track project adherence to stated goals, budgets, and timelines. Closeout requirements include submission of final reports within 120 days after the end of the performance period. The program does not require matching funds but does accept voluntary cost share if offered, which then becomes binding. Overall, the NWS Grand Challenge represents a critical opportunity to contribute to national biosecurity through applied research, technology development, and field-ready interventions that safeguard animal health and prevent the reestablishment of this invasive pest.

Clearly align with a funding priority topic and provide measurable deliverables tied to that objective; ensure budget items are reasonable and justifiable.