A $1 million challenge, on behalf of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to enhance testing for lead in children.

Phase 1 calls upon researchers and innovators to submit concepts and development plans for advanced point-of-care blood lead tests.
Lead Detect Prize

About the challenge

The Lead Detect Prize seeks to accelerate the development of next-generation point-of-care blood lead testing technology. The challenge, on behalf of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, will advance blood lead test solutions by providing funding and expertise while fostering collaboration and partnership. Phase 1 will award up to five winners an equal share of a $150,000 prize pool. Phase 1 winners will also be exclusively invited to enter Phase 2. Up to three Phase 2 winners will receive a share of a $850,000 prize pool.

Timeline

In Phase 1 eligible entrants are invited to submit concept papers and development plans.

We are here

Challenge launch

November 14, 2023

Phase 1 submission deadline

January 22, 2024

Phase 1 winner announcement and Phase 2 start

Q1 2024

Phase 2 submission period ends

Q3 2024

Phase 2 winner announcement

Late 2024

PRIZE POOL

$1 million

The Lead Detect Prize will award up to $1 million. Phase 1 will award up to $150,000, and Phase 2 will award up to $850,000.

Challenge resources

Access resources to learn more about the current issues in blood lead exposure testing and how to take a novel test from concept through regulatory approval and commercialization.

Get started on your submission.