AI-Enabled Discovery of Broad-Spectrum Small-Molecule Inhibitors for Filoviruses
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), specifically the ASPR Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (BARDA), is conducting market research through this Request for Information (RFI). The purpose is to identify organizations with capabilities in artificial intelligence (AI) for the discovery and advancement of broad-spectrum, small-molecule therapeutics targeting filoviruses (e.g., Ebola, Sudan, Marburg viruses). Responses will inform future acquisition planning. Responses are due by 1pm EDT on June 17, 2026.
Scope of Work
This RFI seeks information on technical capabilities, infrastructure, prior experience, and recommended approaches for AI-enabled drug discovery. Key areas of interest include:
- AI-driven design for small-molecule therapeutics.
- In vitro verification of hits.
- Early preclinical proof-of-concept evaluation. The potential funding effort is expected to span AI-enabled discovery through lead selection and preclinical in vitro and in vivo testing in small animal models. Preference is for direct-acting antiviral treatment approaches, with host-targeted approaches relevant to viral replication also considered. Approaches targeting host dysregulation, nucleic acid-based therapeutics, or prophylactic indications are out of scope. Broad-spectrum activity across EBOV, SUDV, and MARV is required, with a preference for efficacy against other negative-sense RNA viruses.
Key Information Sought
BARDA is requesting input on:
- Strategic Scope: Risks/benefits of target-specific vs. broad anti-filovirus approaches, and improvements on nucleoside analog inhibitors.
- Technical Capabilities: Small molecule modalities, AI/in silico drug discovery platforms, molecular design/optimization, modeling/simulation, synthetic feasibility, ADME-Tox, and resistance mitigation.
- End-to-End Example, Timeline and Feasibility: Progression from computational design to in vitro/in vivo assessment, timelines, and key challenges.
- Broad-Spectrum Strategy: Approaches for achieving activity across multiple filovirus species and related RNA viruses.
- Intellectual Property: Approach to IP and freedom-to-operate for AI-assisted drug design.
- General: Interest in partner-matching and required time to prepare an RPP response.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage)
- Response Due: June 17, 2026, by 1pm EDT
- Published: May 19, 2026
- Consortium Membership: RRPV consortium membership is not required for this RFI, but will be mandatory for any future Request for Project Proposals (RPP).
Submission & Evaluation
Interested parties should submit a written response via email to rrpv@ati.org. The response must include a cover page and a technical response, not exceeding five (5) pages (PDF or Word, 10-point font minimum). Responses should be concise and technically focused. Detailed cost proposals or full development plans are not requested. BARDA reserves the right to engage respondents in a Market Research Call for clarification. All responses will be treated as sensitive and confidential.
Additional Notes
This RFI is for information gathering only and does not constitute a Request for Project Proposal (RPP), nor does it imply any obligation to issue a future solicitation, make an award, or pay costs associated with responding. Teaming arrangements or partnerships are encouraged.