University Lab Partners and BARDA Launch $10M ReadyDetect Competition

University Lab Partners and BARDA have launched the ReadyDetect: Next-Generation Diagnostics Competition, a $10 million initiative to accelerate the development of high-performance diagnostic tests. Announced in a press release, the competition aims to foster innovation in creating affordable and accurate antigen tests capable of detecting priority pathogens in decentralized settings, such as homes and remote areas.

The competition is structured in two stages. The Concept Stage, running from 2025 to 2026, will award up to 10 winners $100,000 each for innovative concept papers. The Prototype Stage, from 2026 to 2028, will provide up to $3 million each to three winners for successful prototype development. The goal is to enhance public health readiness by advancing diagnostic tools that are both accessible and resilient.

Open to commercial, academic, and non-profit entities worldwide, the competition requires academic and non-profit applicants to partner with commercial entities to ensure scalability and commercialization. Participants will be evaluated on product design, feasibility, regulatory planning, and commercialization potential.