Next Generation Condom Challenge

Grand Challenges Explorations is an extension of the Grand Challenges in Global Health initiative, both of which are funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and is accepting proposals for a Next Generation Condom.

Grand Challenges Explorations is looking for a Next Generation Condom that significantly preserves or enhances pleasure, in order to improve uptake and regular use. Additional concepts that might increase uptake include attributes that increase ease-of-use for male and female condoms, for example better packaging or designs that are easier to properly apply. In addition, attributes that address and overcome cultural barriers are also desired.  Proposals must (i) have a testable hypothesis, (ii) include an associated plan for how the idea would be tested or validated, and (iii) yield interpretable and unambiguous data in Phase I, in order to be considered for Phase II funding. 

If selected Phase I grants will be issued US $100,000. Phase I projects that show promise in the first year will be eligible for further funding.

A few examples of work that would be considered for funding:

• Application of safe new materials that may preserve or enhance sensation;
• Development and testing of new condom shapes/designs that may provide an improved user experience;
• Application of knowledge from other fields (e.g. neurobiology, vascular biology) to new strategies for improving condom desirability.

The Challenge will not consider funding for:

• Exclusively non-technological, social, or educational interventions;
• Testing of existing commercially available products;
• Proposals without a clearly articulated hypothesis or plan for testing the proposed product’s value in overcoming adherence issues;
• Concepts that are inherently too expensive for a developing world setting;
• Concepts that would sacrifice the value of condoms for prevention of either unplanned pregnancy or HIV infection.

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