RFP: Accelerating Innovation in Vaginal Formulations to Support Women’s Health

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, in collaboration with several Grand Challenges platforms including Science for Africa Foundation, Grand Challenges Brazil, India, and South Africa have launched a global Request for Proposals (RFP) focused on advancing vaginal drug-delivery technologies for women’s health.

About the Initiative

This RFP seeks innovative solutions to develop or improve vaginal formulations, such as films, inserts, and slow-release systems, that are designed specifically for women. The goal is to support women’s health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), by ensuring these technologies are effective, scalable, and user-friendly.

Key Focus Areas

• Development and enhancement of vaginal formulations: Creating products that leverage the vaginal microenvironment and are suitable for diverse settings.
• Qualitative research: Understanding what makes vaginal products desirable and user-friendly across different cultural contexts.

Funding and Timeline

Grants of up to USD 250,000 will be awarded to selected projects, which can last up to 24 months. The foundation encourages applications from exploratory, short-term projects that can demonstrate promising results quickly.

Eligibility

• Research institutions, academic teams, non-profit organizations, for-profit companies, and government agencies are eligible to apply.
• Special encouragement is given to women-led teams and collaborations involving LMIC-based organizations.
• Applicants must apply through a legally registered entity.

Important Dates & Application Details

• Applications open: October 28, 2025
• Deadline for submissions: December 16, 2025 (17:00 EAT / 11:30 PST)
• Apply Now:  Click Here

Why This Matters

The vaginal route of drug delivery offers significant advantages, including discreet use, higher local drug efficacy, fewer systemic side effects, and greater autonomy for women. Despite these benefits, it remains underutilized, especially in LMICs. This RFP aims to bridge that gap by supporting innovations that women will not only tolerate but actively choose to use.

Apply now to contribute to transformative solutions in women’s health and help expand access to effective vaginal formulations worldwide.