The **USAID Translational HIV Research for Innovative Vaccines Ecosystem (NPI THRIVE)** program is a funding initiative designed to accelerate the development of a globally effective HIV vaccine by fostering collaborative research ecosystems led by African scientists and institutions in partnership with global scientific entities. This program supports two complementary objectives: advancing clinical research systems in Africa and promoting strategic preclinical partnerships to progress HIV immunogens toward first-in-human trials. The program emphasizes innovative, locally led approaches and welcomes applications from both traditional and nontraditional partners.
USAID plans to award up to two cooperative agreements, with a total funding ceiling of $98.5 million over five years. Objective 1 will receive up to $61.5 million, while Objective 2 will be funded with up to $37 million. Activities under Objective 1 focus on strengthening African-led systems for clinical research, including immunology and virology studies, development of improved reagents, and clinical development of HIV immunogens. Objective 2 centers on advancing HIV immunogens through preclinical testing, fostering partnerships for efficient manufacturing, and addressing challenges to eliciting protective bnAb responses.
Eligible applicants include U.S. and non-U.S. organizations, such as local entities, new and underutilized organizations, and locally established partners. Faith-based organizations and those with limited prior USAID funding are encouraged to apply. Organizations may submit one application for each objective and may act as sub-partners on multiple applications. Applications must use one of three partnership approaches: direct awards to local entities or new organizations, mentoring awards with at least 50% funding allocated to local or regional partners, or awards with significant co-investment or community financing strengthening.
The selection process involves three stages: submission of a concept note, co-creation sessions (virtual and in-person), and submission of a full application. Concept notes are due by **January 28, 2025, at 5:00 PM EDT**. A timeline for the full application submission will be provided later. Applicants must register on SAM.gov and Grants.gov well in advance to ensure compliance with submission requirements. USAID encourages early submission to account for technical issues.
Program funding will be implemented under Geographic Code 935, supporting research in the U.S. and partner regions. USAID expects the program to establish measurable performance indicators and baseline data to track progress. Intellectual property developed under this award may be owned by recipients, with USAID retaining a non-exclusive license.
This initiative is part of USAID’s New Partnerships Initiative (NPI), which seeks to diversify its partner base, promote equitable partnerships, and achieve sustainable, locally led development outcomes. Applicants are encouraged to review all guidance in the NOFO, including eligibility criteria, partnership approaches, and submission requirements. For questions, potential applicants can contact the designated agreement officers before the question deadline of **December 27, 2024, at 5:00 PM EDT.**
