Economic and Modeling Analyses to Support Immunization Policy and Programs

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), through its Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity for Prevention and Control of Emerging Infectious Diseases (ERA) program, has announced a forecasted funding opportunity titled "Economic and Modeling Analyses to Support Immunization Policy and Programs." This opportunity is being issued under the assistance listing 93.185, which focuses on immunization research, demonstration, public information, education training, and clinical skills improvement projects. The anticipated funding instrument is a cooperative agreement, indicating substantial involvement from CDC staff in the implementation of funded activities. The primary objective of this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is to support research projects that generate robust, timely, and accurate model-based evidence concerning the public health and economic impacts of vaccines. These analyses are intended to support immunization policy and program decision-making by quantifying the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs), estimating the potential benefits of immunization, and guiding strategic investment in vaccination systems. This effort aligns with federal priorities such as those outlined in the Executive Order on “Restoring Gold Standard Science.” Applicants will be expected to employ advanced epidemiological, mathematical, and economic modeling to evaluate disease burdens and the impact of vaccination. Projects should address factors such as disease incidence, efficacy and effectiveness of vaccines, side effects, and the societal and individual-level economic costs associated with disease and prevention. Specific outcomes of interest include estimations of outpatient visits, emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and deaths attributable to VPDs. Moreover, models should estimate the extent to which these health outcomes and related costs can be mitigated through immunization. The findings generated from this cooperative agreement are likely to inform deliberations by bodies such as the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), assist in strategic communications with public health partners, and support federal and local policy development. The broader goal is to inform cost-effective strategies that save lives and reduce societal and economic burdens. This funding opportunity is expected to support one awardee with a total program funding pool of $3,750,000. The award ceiling is $750,000 and the floor is $500,000. Matching is not required. The estimated application open date is December 31, 2025, with applications due by March 1, 2026, no later than 11:59 p.m. ET. The estimated award date is September 15, 2026, and the project start date is September 30, 2026. The forecast was last updated on August 1, 2025, and the archive date is set for March 31, 2026. Eligible applicants for this opportunity include a wide range of entities such as public housing authorities, state and local governments, tribal governments and organizations, school districts, nonprofit organizations (both with and without 501(c)(3) status), and public and private higher education institutions. There are no specified geographic restrictions, meaning the opportunity is available nationwide. Applicants seeking further information can contact Amy Yang at 404-718-8836 or AYang@cdc.gov.