The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response has launched a $2.04 million prize challenge to develop new approaches for rapidly producing and distributing critical medical products during public health emergencies and supply chain disruptions.
“The Digital Stockpile & Manufacturing Response Network Challenge” is being led by ASPR’s Center for Industrial Base Management and Supply Chain, according to a June 16 news release. The competition seeks proposals for a future network that would connect manufacturing specifications with vetted domestic manufacturers capable of producing critical medical products during shortages.
The challenge is open to participants from industry, academia, nonprofit organizations and government. Competitors will advance through three phases: concept development, innovation development and live validation.
Up to eight finalists will receive $5,000 prizes in phase 1 and advance to an in-person pitch event in Washington, D.C. Up to three pitch event winners will receive $150,000 each. Phase 2 teams may receive up to $150,000 in additional milestone prizes per team, while finalists in the live validation phase will compete for a share of up to $1.1 million.
ASPR said it plans to host virtual information sessions beginning in July 2026 for organizations interested in participating in the competition.
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