ReadyDetect
Prototype Stage
Advancing next-generation capillary blood collection and processing devices for diagnostics at the point of need — home, field, and resource-limited settings.
November 2026
Prototype Stage Launched
The application window opens in November 2026.
TBD
Virtual Webinar Option 1
Learn more about the opportunity and have your questions answered.
TBD
Virtual Webinar Option 2
Learn more about the opportunity and have your questions answered.
February 2027
Prototype Stage Letter of Intent & Supporting Documentation Due
Letters of intent, clinical collection protocols, and IRB documentation are due.
Summer 2028
Prototype Stage Winners Announced
Up to 3 winners receive $1,500,000 each.
April 30, 2028
Prototype Stage Completion Reports Due
Completion reports and de-identified data packages are due by April 30, 2028 to be eligible for the prize.
March 2027 - April 2028
Progress Checks on Study Progress
Eligible applicants will submit a brief form every other month about their study progress.
November 2026 - March 2027 (Rolling)
Letters of Eligibility Sent to Applicants
As submitted documents are reviewed, applicants will receive letters of eligibility to formally enter the Prototype Stage. A letter of eligibility is required to be eligible for the prize.
November 2026
Prototype Stage Launched
The application window opens in November 2026.
TBD
Virtual Webinar Option 1
Learn more about the opportunity and have your questions answered.
TBD
Virtual Webinar Option 2
Learn more about the opportunity and have your questions answered.
February 2027
Prototype Stage Letter of Intent & Supporting Documentation Due
Letters of intent, clinical collection protocols, and IRB documentation are due.
November 2026 - March 2027 (Rolling)
Letters of Eligibility Sent to Applicants
As submitted documents are reviewed, applicants will receive letters of eligibility to formally enter the Prototype Stage. A letter of eligibility is required to be eligible for the prize.
March 2027 - April 2028
Progress Checks on Study Progress
Eligible applicants will submit a brief form every other month about their study progress.
April 30, 2028
Prototype Stage Completion Reports Due
Completion reports and de-identified data packages are due by April 30, 2028 to be eligible for the prize.
Summer 2028
Prototype Stage Winners Announced
Up to 3 winners receive $1,500,000 each.
*Specific dates will be announced when the Stage is launched.
The Prototype Stage invites eligible entrants to develop and test a prototype device and generate experimental evidence demonstrating performance, usability, and scalability.
Participation in the Concept Stage is not required for eligibility in the Prototype Stage. Applicants may apply directly to the Prototype Stage.
Prototype Stage technologies will be evaluated against the Desired Product Attributes (DPA), including device performance, usability, safety, and scalability goals.
Entry Requirements
To be eligible for participation in the Prototype Stage, entrants must submit a letter of intent along with all required regulatory documentation prior to the start of the Prototype Stage. Participation in the Concept Stage is not required for eligibility in the Prototype Stage.
Required materials include:
- Letter of intent to participate in the Prototype Stage
- Clinical collection protocol and Federalwide Assurance (FWA) number
- Informed consent forms
- IRB documentation (approval or exemption)
Applicants must obtain applicable IRB approval and submit all required clinical documentation for review and approval prior to participation in the Prototype Stage.
Completion Report Requirements
To be eligible for a Prototype Stage prize, entrants must submit a final report (maximum 25 pages; appendices excluded from page count) and supporting materials demonstrating the following:
Prototype Stage Evaluation Criteria
A panel of experts will evaluate and score submissions according to the Prototype Stage evaluation criteria below. Based on these evaluations, up to three (3) Prototype Stage winners will be selected, each receiving a $1,500,000 prize.
Device Performance
- Extent to which the device performs functionally, including minimal or no sample loss, minimal collection and processing steps, and reduced risk of user exposure
- Demonstrated performance across a sufficient number of human participants (N≥75 samples with appropriate age distribution)
- Reliable collection of the minimum required sample volume
Device Integration
- Extent to which the device can be detached from the selected diagnostic test after use without causing physical damage to the test
Cost and Scalability
- Extent to which the Cost of Goods target can be achieved through technological innovation rather than scale-up alone
Alignment with Desired Product Attributes
- Evidence that the prototype meets as many Desired Product Attributes (DPA) as possible (threshold and optimal)
Prototype Stage details, requirements, and timelines are subject to change prior to the launch of the Prototype Stage.
For additional information and questions, view our FAQs or contact ReadyDetect@biotoolsinnovator.org.