Deployed Warfighter Protection (DWFP) Program for the Protection of Deployed Military Personnel from Threats Posed by Arthropod Disease Vectors

The Deployed Warfighter Protection (DWFP) Program, administered by the Armed Forces Pest Management Board (AFPMB) under the U.S. Department of Defense, aims to protect deployed military personnel from arthropod-borne diseases. Operating under the U.S. Army Contracting Command at Aberdeen Proving Ground’s Edgewood Division (ACC-APG Edgewood), the program addresses health threats posed by vectors such as ticks, mosquitoes, and nuisance arthropods. The program encourages research that supports the development of new or improved insecticides, application technologies, and personal protection methods. It also emphasizes equipment sustainability and environmental suitability for austere deployment settings. This funding opportunity focuses on two primary areas: Vector Control (DWFP-2) and Vector Surveillance and Identification (DWFP-4). Eligible research may involve the development and field evaluation of novel insecticides or formulations, testing of personal protection technologies, or improving pesticide application equipment. The work must align with advanced technology development levels (specifically Technology Readiness Levels 4–6), and applicants should include transition plans for potential commercialization or Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registration if applicable. Studies must be product-oriented and should ideally have dual relevance for military and civilian applications. Eligibility is open to U.S.-based organizations including academic institutions, nonprofits, and for-profit firms, provided they are organized and operating within the United States. Government agencies may also apply, assuming there is no overlap with their internally funded programs. Foreign organizations are ineligible, though partnerships with non-U.S. entities are allowed if at least 50% of the research occurs domestically. The Principal Investigator must be affiliated with the applicant institution. A total of five awards are anticipated. The application process consists of two stages: a pre-application via the eBRAP portal, and, if invited, a full application through either Grants.gov (extramural) or eBRAP (intramural). Required documents for full applications include a project narrative, statement of work, technical abstract, transition plan, budget, and personnel documentation. Strict formatting, character limits, and submission deadlines apply. No grace periods are allowed for missed deadlines, and applications lacking required components will be administratively rejected. Evaluation follows a two-tier process comprising peer and programmatic review. Proposals are scored primarily on research strategy and feasibility, with secondary consideration for statistical planning, transition planning, impact, rationale, and personnel qualifications. Awards may not support fundamental research, human clinical trials, or pesticide registration fees. The maximum award is $975,000 over three years, with up to $325,000 annually. Matching funds are not required. Key deadlines include a pre-application submission by November 28, 2025, full application by March 25, 2026, and final award notifications expected between July and September 2026. The award performance period is up to 36 months. For assistance, applicants may contact Alexander Z Mayatte at 520-671-2930. Full application materials are accessible through the eBRAP and Grants.gov portals, and the full NOFO is available for download online.

Address at least one DWFP Focus Area; include EPA registration strategy for pesticides; avoid proposing basic research.