The HPAI Poultry Innovation Grand Challenge is a funding opportunity provided by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) for Fiscal Year 2025. This initiative is part of USDA’s larger strategy to combat highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), support poultry producers, and help lower egg prices. The challenge aims to provide financial support for innovative projects related to vaccines, therapeutics, and research strategies addressing HPAI in poultry.

This funding opportunity will make up to $100 million available through cooperative agreements and interagency agreements. The maximum anticipated award for most projects is $2 million, but higher requests may be considered. The challenge is open to a broad range of applicants, including for-profit organizations, nonprofit entities, colleges and universities, state and regional producer organizations, veterinary organizations, federal agencies, and state emergency agencies. Foreign entities may be eligible but will require additional review and approval.

Eligible projects must align with one or more funding priority topics, which include: developing novel vaccines for poultry, creating new therapeutic interventions, and conducting research on HPAI transmission, control, and response strategies. Special consideration will be given to projects that support rapid vaccine updates, innovative biosecurity methods, or strategies that reduce the need for large-scale poultry depopulation. Proposals must present a practical and technically sound plan, demonstrate feasibility, and align with the USDA’s strategic priorities.

Applicants must submit their proposals through ezFedGrants (eFG) for non-federal entities or via email for federal applicants. The application deadline is May 19, 2025, at 11:59 PM Eastern Daylight Time. The anticipated project start date is August 1, 2025, with a maximum period of performance of three years. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement, though applicants may voluntarily commit funds.

Proposals will be reviewed based on their alignment with funding priorities, feasibility of success, qualifications of the applicant team, and cost-effectiveness. The selection process includes a merit-based review by subject matter experts. Successful applicants will be notified via email and required to comply with reporting and performance evaluation requirements. APHIS will provide oversight and collaborate with recipients to ensure project goals are met.

For additional information, applicants can visit the USDA APHIS HPAI Poultry Innovation Grand Challenge website or contact SM.AP.HPAI.Challenge@usda.gov.