Direct-to-Consumer Distribution of HIV and other STI Self-Tests

The Direct-to-Consumer Distribution of HIV and other STI Self-Tests grant opportunity is issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Specifically administered through the National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, this cooperative agreement reflects the federal government’s continued commitment to reducing the incidence and transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections across the United States. The program is positioned within the broader HIV Prevention and Surveillance Activities portfolio and aligns with national public health strategies focused on early detection, prevention, and improved health outcomes for high-risk populations. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support the optimization and expansion of an existing web-based ordering portal and distribution infrastructure capable of delivering at least 1.5 million HIV and STI self-test kits directly to individuals. The program aims to reach communities experiencing a high burden of HIV and other STIs, ensuring access to testing resources that can be used privately and conveniently. By increasing the availability and accessibility of self-testing options, the initiative seeks to improve awareness of infection status, facilitate early linkage to care, and ultimately reduce new infections and transmission rates. Funding under this cooperative agreement is expected to support a range of activities tied to the distribution and utilization of self-test kits. Allowable uses of funds include maintaining and enhancing digital ordering platforms, logistics and distribution systems, outreach and awareness campaigns, and integration with treatment and prevention services. Recipients are expected to coordinate testing distribution with educational resources and referral pathways for confirmatory testing, treatment, and preventive services such as PrEP. While the total program funding is substantial, specific award ceilings and floors are not defined in the forecast, indicating that final award parameters will be clarified in the full announcement. Eligibility for this opportunity is broad and includes private and public institutions of higher education, nonprofit organizations with and without 501(c)(3) status, and for-profit organizations that are not classified as small businesses. This inclusive eligibility framework allows a wide range of organizations with relevant infrastructure and experience to apply, particularly those capable of operating large-scale distribution programs and digital platforms. There is no cost sharing or matching requirement associated with this opportunity, which reduces financial barriers for applicants and encourages participation from organizations with strong technical capacity but limited matching funds. The application process is expected to be conducted electronically, with submissions due by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on the designated deadline. Although this opportunity is currently forecasted, the estimated timeline indicates that the funding announcement will be posted in March 2027, with applications due in May 2027. Awards are anticipated to be made by late August 2027, with project activities beginning at the end of September 2027. As a cooperative agreement, recipients should expect substantial involvement from CDC program staff in the implementation and oversight of funded activities. Evaluation criteria and application components are not detailed in the forecast notice but are expected to include assessments of organizational capacity, program design, scalability, and alignment with public health goals. Applicants will likely need to demonstrate experience in digital health platforms, large-scale distribution logistics, and community engagement. For additional information or inquiries, applicants may contact the program representative, Jessica Keralis, via phone or email. As this is a forecasted opportunity, prospective applicants are encouraged to monitor updates and prepare in advance for the formal release of the funding announcement.