Development of Swab-Based TB Assays on
Point-of-Care Molecular Platforms
Summary
This is an opportunity to apply for funding to advance development of oral swab-based
tuberculosis (TB) assays on point-of-care (POC) molecular platforms. Diagnostic developers are
invited to apply to this request for applications (RFA) sponsored by the Supporting, Mobilizing,
and Accelerating Research for Tuberculosis Elimination (SMART4TB) consortium and funded by
the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). We are seeking applications
for the development of an oral swab-based TB assay that will run on an applicant’s existing
proprietary POC molecular platform. Diagnostic developers with a sample-to-answer, POC
molecular platform in pre-commercialization or commercialization phase (a technology readiness
level of 7 or higher); those suitable for use at primary level healthcare facilities without access to
continuous wall power in high TB burden countries are particularly encouraged to apply. Selected
applicants will participate in a multi-stage TB assay development process with an initial budget
of $150,000 USD per awardee and a potential additional budget of up to $700,000 USD
contingent on meeting milestones.