Opportunities to Advance Women’s Health Innovation ( Fully Funded )

Background

Women’s health extends far beyond reproductive concerns, encompassing diverse biological and social aspects of life. Yet, innovation in this crucial field faces funding gaps and disparities. To bridge these divides, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the U.S. National Institutes of Health initiated the Women’s Health Innovation Opportunity Map 2023, identifying key areas for research and development.

The Challenge

The Women’s Health Innovation team at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is now seeking innovative proposals aligned with the Opportunity Map. This Request for Proposals (RFP) aims to kickstart initiatives that specifically address the gaps in women’s health R&D. The goal is to advance bold ideas, enhance funding for women’s health R&D, and demonstrate the effectiveness of investments in this vital field.

What We’re Looking For

We invite proposals focusing on the following key areas from the Opportunity Map:

1. Data and Modeling: Improve data collection, harmonization, and utilization, addressing gender-specific health elements and determinants.
2. Research Design and Methodologies: Promote sex- and gender-intentional research design, methods, and analysis.
3. Regulatory and Science Policy: Implement sex- and gender-intentional policy frameworks and reporting standards.
4. Innovation Introduction: Facilitate the introduction of women’s health solutions into new markets.
5. Social and Structural Determinants: Research the impact of gender roles, power dynamics, and cultural practices on women’s health.
6. Training and Careers: Support education, training, and career advancement in women’s health R&D.
7. Communicable Diseases: Develop interventions for infections disproportionately affecting women.
8. Female-Specific Conditions: Investigate gynecological health conditions and develop preventive tools and therapies.

Eligibility

This initiative is open to nonprofits, for-profits, international organizations, government agencies, and academic institutions. Special consideration will be given to projects led by or involving women, as well as those based in low- and middle-income countries.

Award

Up to USD $150,000 is available per project, lasting up to 2 years. The initiative aims to fund up to 3 proposals per key area, ensuring a balanced and impactful portfolio.

Let’s pioneer innovations that transform women’s health. Submit your bold ideas and be part of this global movement. Together, we can create a healthier world for everyone.

How to apply