(NAFB.com) – Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the launch of the New World Screwworm Grand Challenge. This funding opportunity marks a pivotal step in USDA’s comprehensive strategy to combat NWS and prevent its northward spread. As part of the Grand Challenge, USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service will make up to $100 million available to support innovative projects that enhance NWS sterile fly production, strengthen response strategies, and safeguard U.S. agriculture, animal health, and trade. APHIS invites proposals that support objectives that develop novel NWS traps and lures, develop and increase understanding of NWS therapeutics and treatments for animals, and develop other tools to bolster preparedness or response to NWS. Eligible applicants are invited to submit proposals that align with and support these priorities by the deadline on February 23, 2026. The notice of the opportunity is available on the NWS Grand Challenge webpage.