Advancing outbreak detection, notification, and response capacity through 7-1-7 implementation in partner countries

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is forecasting a cooperative agreement opportunity under the opportunity number CDC-RFA-JG-26-0214. This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), titled "Advancing outbreak detection, notification, and response capacity through 7-1-7 implementation in partner countries," is part of CDC’s ongoing international health security initiative. The agency has a longstanding history of bolstering global health infrastructure, particularly through the Global Health Center (GHC), and this effort is aligned with its strategic vision to prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats worldwide. The primary objective of this grant is to strengthen the capacity of partner countries to respond swiftly and effectively to outbreaks. It is guided by the “7-1-7” target, which aims to ensure that outbreaks are detected within seven days, reported within one day, and responded to within seven days. This framework builds on lessons learned from past global health emergencies and emphasizes international collaboration to reduce the risk of pandemics. Funded activities will take place outside the United States and its territories, reflecting a global focus intended to benefit both recipient countries and the U.S. by containing threats at their source. The scope of the funding includes bolstering early warning surveillance systems, expanding laboratory capabilities, enhancing data sharing and communications, and strengthening rapid response operations. Activities may also encompass training personnel, improving logistics systems, and enhancing cross-border coordination. These efforts aim to minimize health and economic consequences by stopping outbreaks before they escalate. The grant supports systems-level improvements and requires recipient countries to implement sustainable and locally-led initiatives, aligning with broader goals of accountability and self-reliance. There is no matching or cost-sharing requirement for applicants, allowing a broader range of organizations to participate. Eligible applicants span a wide spectrum and include governmental bodies at all levels (state, county, city), tribal governments and organizations, public and private institutions of higher education, nonprofits with or without 501(c)(3) status, as well as for-profit entities including small businesses. The eligibility list ensures that a diverse array of institutions can propose innovative and context-specific solutions to enhance outbreak preparedness and response. While the NOFO is currently forecasted, the estimated posting date is February 10, 2026. Interested applicants should anticipate an application due date of April 11, 2026, by 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Award announcements are expected by August 29, 2026, with funded projects beginning on or around September 30, 2026. The grant anticipates making up to eight awards, though specific funding levels are not yet disclosed. The total program funding and per-award ceilings and floors are currently listed as zero, which likely reflects placeholder data pending final allocation details. Questions regarding the opportunity may be directed to Broderick Yoerg via email at [email protected] or phone at 404-234-0666. As a forecasted opportunity, applicants should monitor Grants.gov and CDC communications for updates, including potential changes to deadlines, application requirements, and budget guidance. Because the opportunity is expected to recur annually, organizations planning for long-term engagement should anticipate future cycles aligned with this timeframe.