Learn more about the Patch Forward Prize and ask questions at the April 18 virtual information session. Dr. Robert Johnson, Director of BARDA’s Medical Countermeasures Program, will discuss the ambitious goals for the prize. The prize team will also present an in-depth overview of the three stages, exploring submission expectations, eligibility requirements, and other key considerations.
A video recording and summary of questions and answers will be published following the session.
A $50 million Project NextGen competition
The Patch Forward Prize is a $50 million competition to advance microneedle patch-based RNA vaccines for COVID-19, seasonal influenza, and pandemic influenza. The Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) calls on vaccine developers and patch makers to partner and accelerate new vaccine technologies.
The Patch Forward Prize is a unique funding mechanism to foster industry collaboration and support the advancement of patch-based vaccine candidates toward the completion of Phase I clinical trials. By demonstrating the safety and immunogenicity of patch-based RNA vaccines in humans, the prize will accelerate breakthroughs in vaccine technology.
The initial stage of the prize invites eligible entrants — namely RNA vaccine developers and patch makers engaging in strategic partnerships — to submit concept papers detailing their respective technologies, proposed product, plans for development, and functional testing. The concept papers are expected to address key considerations for product development and formulation, regulatory review and approval, preclinical and clinical evaluation, and manufacturing processes to advance a safe, tolerable, and immunogenic patch-based RNA vaccine. Concept papers are due by October 3, 2024: Preview the submission form, multistage timeline, award details, and evaluation criteria.
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