Effective October 15, 2026, all Single Shield Prize Stage 0 concept papers must indicate the pandemic influenza A(H5N1) strain(s) that entrants intend to use during nonclinical development. This is the only update to the concept paper instructions.
Before submitting to the Stage 0: Concept Stage, prospective entrants must first submit a Declaration of Intent (DOI). The DOI helps the Single Shield Prize team confirm a prospective entrant’s eligibility before they submit a concept paper.
Keep these five key reminders in mind as you prepare your DOI:
- The DOI collects basic information about your entity and proposed vaccine candidate. Review the rules, terms, and conditions and product requirements to understand full eligibility requirements.
- Submit your DOI by January 5, 2027. DOIs are reviewed on a rolling basis, and only entrants with approved DOIs can submit concept papers. Submit early to allow time for review before the deadline.
- You can submit a new DOI, if needed. If your DOI is not approved, you can make any necessary changes and submit a new DOI before the January 5 deadline.
- Plan ahead for the winter break. DOI reviews will pause from December 25, 2026, through January 1, 2027, while the prize team is out of office. Submit early to avoid delays.
- Allow up to five business days for review. The outcome of your DOI review will be delivered via email from sender@app.awardforce.com. Add this email to ensure the message reaches your inbox. We also recommend keeping review time in mind when submitting your DOI ahead of the winter break and January 5 deadline.
Next steps after DOI approval
Once your DOI is approved, eligible entrants are invited to submit a concept paper by January 15, 2027. Explore the Concept Stage evaluation criteria and FAQs for details on evaluation, scientific scope, and additional resources.