Deadline: 19-Jan-2026
Unitaid has announced a global Call for Proposals to expand access to innovative diagnostic tools and integrated testing services that strengthen health systems, improve disease detection, and optimize the use of existing diagnostic infrastructure across multiple disease programs.
The objectives of this call are to increase access to diagnostics through the optimal introduction, placement, and delivery of effective, affordable, and innovative diagnostic solutions that support integrated, multi-disease detection and diagnosis. This will be achieved by supporting countries and affected communities in designing and deploying integrated diagnostic strategies within specific settings or programs, and by accelerating the deployment and adoption of integrated diagnostic tools—particularly at or near the point of care—that expand testing capacity at the lowest levels of the health system.
The total approximate funding for all projects selected from this Call for Proposals will depend on the proposals received and the scope of work undertaken but is expected to total around US$25 million.
Access to timely and reliable diagnostics remains one of the most significant barriers to effective healthcare delivery in low- and middle-income countries, where less than half of the population has adequate access to diagnostic services. The lack of integration among diagnostic programs has led to inefficiencies, missed diagnoses, and underutilized equipment. This call aims to leverage existing diagnostic infrastructure, including systems established through investments in HIV, TB, and COVID-19 responses, to create interconnected, efficient, and equitable diagnostic networks.
The vision for integrated diagnostics is based on evidence that shared systems and services can improve access to testing tools while optimizing limited resources. Integration involves sharing diagnostic devices and service delivery pathways across programs that address multiple diseases, ultimately improving access for patients and enhancing overall system efficiency. It will also address long-standing fragmentation across supply chains, laboratory systems, and data networks, ensuring interoperability and sustainability.
Under this call, Unitaid seeks projects that will operate across four to five countries with regional or south-based leadership and partnerships. These projects will test the feasibility and scalability of integrated diagnostic solutions, including the implementation of molecular diagnostic tools that have proven effective in TB testing and can be extended to detect other diseases. Proposed interventions should align with national priorities and complement ongoing global health initiatives such as those supported by the Global Fund, CIFF, and the Gates Foundation.
Projects are expected to take a country-led approach, engaging national laboratory directorates, ministries of health, and affected communities to co-design strategies for integration. Strong emphasis will be placed on community and civil society engagement, ensuring inclusive participation and long-term ownership. Countries with high disease burdens, advanced diagnostic networks, and strong political commitment to integration will be prioritized.
For more information, visit Unitaid.
