Timeline

The Single Shield Prize is structured across three stages, designed to advance vaccine candidates from concept to Investigational New Drug application.

Stage 0: Concept stage

The Concept stage of the prize calls on entrants to submit concept papers detailing their respective single-administration vaccine technologies for pandemic influenza A(H5N1).

Review the Concept Stage evaluation criteria and submission instructions.

Concept Stage launch

August 5, 2026
The Concept Stage submission period opens.

Informational webinar

September 9, 2026
A virtual information session will cover prize details, eligibility requirements, and frequently asked questions.
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Concept Stage Proposers' Day

September 29, 2026
Learn about the Concept Stage, and connect with potential collaborators at this in-person event in New York City.

Declaration of Intent (DOI) deadline

January 5, 2027, 4:59PM ET
Prospective entrants must submit a DOI with basic entrant information and a short description of their proposed vaccine candidate.

Submission period closes

January 15, 2027, 4:59PM ET
Entrants must submit their concept papers by this deadline.

Stage 1: Nonclinical Proof of Concept

Stage 1 is anticipated to be open from Q2 2027 to mid-2029. Stage 1 is open to Concept Stage winners and new entrants who meet the eligibility requirements.

Declarations of Intent (DOIs)

New entrants must submit a DOI and be approved before they can submit a Stage 1 technical paper. Detailed requirements will be published prior to the launch of Stage 1.

Technical papers

Eligible entrants can submit technical papers detailing outcomes of completed Stage 1 activities. Technical papers can be submitted as soon as they are ready during the open submission window.

Stage 2: IND Readiness

Stage 2 represents the critical transition from research-grade proof of concept to regulatory-grade drug product ready for clinical investigation.

Stage 2 launches

Anticipated mid-2029
Stage 1 winners will be eligible for Stage 2.

Submission period ends

Anticipated mid-2031
Deadline for submissions.

Winner announcement and Demo Day

Anticipated late 2031
Winner(s) will be announced and may be invited to showcase their proposed vaccine candidate at a Demo Day event.

Apply now: September 29 Proposers’ Day

Register