Strengthening Global Health Security by improving public health capacity to detect, notify, and respond to disease outbreaks globally

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is forecasting a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) titled “Strengthening Global Health Security by improving public health capacity to detect, notify, and respond to disease outbreaks globally.” The initiative will be administered by the CDC’s Global Health Center (GHC) and is structured as a cooperative agreement. It aims to continue the U.S. Government’s efforts in enhancing global public health security by building public health capacity worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries and regions with limited health infrastructure. This NOFO builds on a decade of investments and experience in Global Health Security (GHS), particularly lessons drawn from responses to the COVID-19 pandemic and other international health emergencies. The primary goal is to enhance the ability of partner countries to prevent, detect, and respond to emerging infectious disease threats, including naturally occurring epidemics and accidental or intentional releases of pathogens. It promotes partnership models with Ministries of Health and other governmental institutions, encouraging international collaboration for stronger, interconnected health systems capable of mitigating global health crises. Funded activities under this cooperative agreement will support improvements in outbreak prevention strategies, the development of early warning systems, and the rapid mobilization of resources in response to health emergencies. The expected outcomes include enhanced capacity to prevent avoidable epidemics, faster detection and notification of new biological threats, and improved response mechanisms to address public health events of international concern. While specific spending rules are not detailed in the forecast, the program falls under Assistance Listing 93.318, which focuses on strengthening public health impact and system capacity globally. Eligible applicants for this opportunity include a wide range of U.S.-based entities such as public and private institutions of higher education, tribal governments and organizations, nonprofits, small businesses, and governmental units at the city, county, state, and district levels. Notably, the eligibility list includes both 501(c)(3) and non-501(c)(3) nonprofits, which suggests an inclusive approach, though no further narrative on eligibility restrictions is provided in the forecast. The forecast indicates that applications are expected to open around April 24, 2026, with a submission deadline of June 25, 2026, by 11:59 PM ET. Awards are anticipated to be announced by August 31, 2026, and the performance period is scheduled to begin on September 30, 2026. As this is a forecasted opportunity, applicants should monitor the listing for updates and prepare accordingly. The opportunity is not expected to require cost-sharing or matching funds. All inquiries regarding this NOFO should be directed to Broderick Yoerg, reachable by phone at 404.234.0666 or via email at [email protected]. There is currently no direct PDF version of the NOFO available for download. Applicants are advised to check Grants.gov for updates and to subscribe for notifications to remain informed of any changes in deadlines, eligibility, or program scope.