Option A: Innovating Low-Cost mAb Manufacturing Solutions

The Gates Foundation, in collaboration with LifeArc, drives global health innovation to tackle significant challenges. The Gates Foundation is renowned for its mission to reduce global health disparities through groundbreaking initiatives, while LifeArc, a UK-based self-funded medical research charity, focuses on translating research into practical applications for patients. Together, they aim to accelerate the development of accessible monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapies by fostering diverse and disruptive innovations that reduce production costs and expand global access to lifesaving treatments.

This Grand Challenge seeks innovative proposals for developing a low-cost manufacturing process for monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) with a final drug substance cost-of-goods target of $10 per gram. Specifically, the challenge focuses on creating proof-of-concept solutions for mAb production, aiming to reduce manufacturing costs without compromising the quality or effectiveness of treatments. The challenge encourages diverse, creative approaches to enhance production efficiency, reduce material costs, and leverage breakthroughs from various industries. Selected proposals may receive funding of up to $750,000 USD for a period of up to 18 months. The ultimate goal is to expand access to life-saving mAb treatments globally, especially in low- and middle-income countries.