Strengthening public health efforts and partnerships to protect and improve health in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), operating under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), has announced a forecasted Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) titled “Strengthening public health efforts and partnerships to protect and improve health in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).” This funding initiative aims to support the CDC’s ongoing commitment to Global Health Security (GHS) by reinforcing efforts in epidemic prevention, rapid detection of threats, and effective response to infectious diseases and international public health emergencies. Through partnerships with the DRC's Ministry of Health and other governmental institutions, this NOFO is designed to build a robust and resilient public health infrastructure capable of safeguarding both local and global populations. This NOFO emphasizes three primary outcomes: (1) enhancing the prevention of avoidable epidemics, including those caused by natural outbreaks and the unintentional or deliberate release of hazardous pathogens; (2) improving the capacity for early and accurate detection, including the identification, characterization, and timely reporting of emerging public health threats; and (3) strengthening the readiness to respond rapidly and effectively to infectious diseases and public health threats of international concern. These outcomes are intended to foster regional and global cooperation in containing public health risks at their source. The program will be administered through cooperative agreements, with an expected total funding amount of $15,500,000 and up to four anticipated awards. Although specific award ceilings and floors are not provided at this stage, the substantial funding allocation suggests an emphasis on multi-year, large-scale partnerships. There is no matching or cost-sharing requirement, which broadens accessibility for a diverse pool of applicants. The CDC's use of cooperative agreements indicates that it will maintain substantial involvement in the implementation and management of funded projects. The opportunity is open to a wide range of eligible applicants including state and local governments, tribal entities, public and private institutions of higher education, nonprofit organizations, for-profit organizations (including small businesses), public housing authorities, and special district governments. The inclusiveness of eligibility underscores the CDC’s intent to foster diverse partnerships that bring varied expertise and capacities to address complex global health challenges. Although full application instructions are not yet available, the estimated timeline provides key milestones: the official posting of the NOFO is anticipated on March 2, 2026, with applications due by May 3, 2026 at 11:59 PM ET. Awards are expected to be made by August 31, 2026, and funded projects are projected to begin on September 30, 2026. Interested applicants should prepare by monitoring updates and ensuring organizational readiness for electronic submission through Grants.gov. For additional details or clarifications, applicants are directed to contact Broderick Yoerg at 404.234.0666 or via email at DGHPNOFOs@cdc.gov. As this is a forecasted opportunity, organizations are encouraged to stay informed of updates and prepare to act promptly once the NOFO is officially posted.