(Deadline: November 23, 2020)
*** For complete instructions, download the complete Request for Proposals (PDF) at the bottom of this page ***
Background
The development and delivery of an effective vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 is our most promising exit strategy from the COVID-19 pandemic. With multiple candidates in Phase III clinical trials, it is likely that one or more vaccines will be approved within the next 6 months. Widespread use of new vaccines will be critical for the development of herd immunity, and ending the COVID-19 pandemic. There are multiple challenges to be overcome for an effective and equitable vaccine rollout strategy including concerns about vaccine efficacy and safety, cultural attitudes towards vaccination, misinformation and gaps in scientific communication, education and outreach, and the costs and logistics of vaccine distribution and administration.
This MI4 funding opportunity is seeking innovative proposals that address barriers to COVID-19 vaccine delivery. This opportunity provides one-time funding of up to $100,000 for 6-month projects that seek to provide solutions for barriers to effective and equitable vaccination. Projects should be solution-oriented. Proposals seeking to identify or understand barriers without the development of mitigating strategies will not be considered. A funding envelope of up to $500,000 is available for this opportunity.
Key Dates
- Call for Proposals: October 21, 2020
- Application deadline: November 23, 2020
- Evaluation period: November 23 – December 7, 2020
- Announcement of competition results: December 7, 2020 (TBC)
Objectives of the Funding Opportunity
To rapidly provide solutions for barriers to effective and equitable delivery of COVID-19 vaccines.
Scope
The program will support innovative approaches that will provide answers within a 6-month timeframe.
Team Composition
MI4 grants can be held at any McGill University Department or McGill University-affiliated Research institute. Subcontracts to investigators outside McGill University and its affiliated institutions must be clearly justified.
Eligibility
The Principal Investigators must hold a McGill appointment.
Available Funds and Grant Term
Currently an envelope of up to $500,000 has been reserved for this program. Further funds may be allocated to this program as they become available.
Grants will be for a period of 6 months and will be non-renewable. Unspent funds must be returned to MI4 at the end of this period, or if other external support for the project is obtained.
Submission Deadline
The deadline for submissions is November 23, 2020 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.
Instructions for Submission
For instructions for submission, please download the Request for Proposals (PDF) via the below link.
Contact
Please direct any inquiries regarding this RFP to admincoordmcgilli4.med [at] mcgill.ca. Generally, a response will be provided within one business day.
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