USDA Launches New World Screwworm Grand Challenge

(Washington, D.C., January 21, 2026) – In a significant move to protect America’s agriculture, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the initiation of the New World Screwworm (NWS) Grand Challenge. This funding opportunity is a cornerstone of the USDA’s proactive approach to combating NWS and preventing its further spread into the U.S.

“This is a strategic investment in America’s farmers and ranchers and is an important action to ensure the safety and future success of our food supply, which is essential to our national security,” Secretary Rollins stated. “We must continually innovate to stay ahead of this pest, safeguarding our food supply and economy, thus supporting the livelihoods of our ranchers and contributing to rebuilding our cattle herd to benefit consumers.”

As part of the Grand Challenge, the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) will allocate up to $100 million for groundbreaking projects aimed at:

• Enhancing the production of sterile NWS flies
• Developing innovative traps and lures for NWS
• Researching therapeutics and treatments for NWS affecting livestock
• Creating effective tools for preparedness or rapid response to NWS threats

Funding and Application Information

Entities interested in participating can access the complete notice of funding opportunity, including application instructions and eligibility criteria, on the NWS Grand Challenge webpage. Additionally, applicants can find relevant information on the ezFedGrants website or by searching Grants.gov for USDA-APHIS-10025-OA000000-26-0001.

Eligible applicants are encouraged to submit proposals that align with the outlined priorities by the deadline of February 23, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET.

Registration and Preparation

Those interested in submitting a proposal must ensure they are registered with the U.S. Government System for Award Management (SAM). For additional details on the funding process and how to prepare for an application, check here.

Stay Informed

For further information about the New World Screwworm, please visit screwworm.gov. You can also sign up here to receive the latest updates directly to your inbox.

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