Single Shield Prize

An $80+ million competition to advance single-administration vaccine platforms for pandemic influenza A(H5N1)

The Single Shield Prize calls for innovative solutions enabling the development of vaccines that could provide protection in only one visit.

About the prize

The Single Shield Prize is a competition to advance single-administration vaccine platforms for pandemic influenza A(H5N1). Vaccine developers and researchers, biotech companies, and other innovators can compete for more than $80 million in awards while gaining access to technical support and opportunities to connect with collaborators, industry partners, and potential investors. Eligible entrants are invited to submit a concept paper by January 15, 2027.

Stage overview

Current stage

Stage 0: Concept Stage

The total prize pool is $32 million. Up to eight winners will have the opportunity to receive up to $4 million each.

Anticipated Q2 2027

Stage 1: Nonclinical Proof of Concept

The total prize pool is $32 million. Up to four winners will have the opportunity to receive up to $8 million each.

Anticipated mid-2029

Stage 2: Investigational New Drug (IND) Readiness

Award details for Stage 2 will be released prior to the launch of Stage 2, anticipated mid-2029.

Read about the stage details

Timeline

The Single Shield Prize is accepting Concept Stage submissions until January 15, 2027. To submit, entrants must first complete a Declaration of Intent (DOI). DOIs will be reviewed on a rolling basis until January 5, 2027.

We are here

Stage 0: Concept Stage opens

August 5, 2026

Stage 0: Declaration of Intent deadline

January 5, 2027

Stage 0: Concept Stage closes

January 15, 2027

Stage 1: Nonclinical Proof of Concept opens

Anticipated Q2 2027

Stage 2: Investigational New Drug (IND) Readiness opens

Anticipated mid-2029

Prize pool

$80+ million

The Single Shield Prize expects to award more than $80 million across three stages to advance single-administration vaccine platforms for pandemic influenza A(H5N1).

Teaming

Teaming collaborations between diverse innovators are encouraged to help advance the development of a single-administration A(H5N1) vaccine. Those interested in teaming can share a participant profile to facilitate team formation.

Register for the September 9 informational webinar