Neftaly: Strategies for Securing Funding for Biomarker Programs
Introduction
Biomarkers offer transformative potential for improving health outcomes through early disease detection, targeted treatment, and precision public health. Yet, without sustained and strategic financing, biomarker programs struggle to move from research to impact—especially in resource-limited settings.
At Neftaly, we support governments, researchers, and organizations in identifying and leveraging multiple funding pathways to ensure that biomarker programs are not only launched, but sustained, scaled, and integrated into health systems.
Core Strategies for Securing Funding
1. Align with National and Global Priorities
- Frame biomarker programs within key health priorities such as infectious disease surveillance, maternal and child health, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), or pandemic preparedness.
- Position programs as part of broader initiatives like Universal Health Coverage (UHC), One Health, or Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to appeal to multilateral donors and development agencies.
2. Build Strong Investment Cases
- Highlight the health impact, cost-effectiveness, and long-term value of biomarkers in prevention, early diagnosis, and reducing treatment costs.
- Use data, modeling, and real-world evidence to demonstrate potential savings to health systems and improved outcomes for communities.
3. Diversify Funding Sources
- Tap into multiple funding avenues including:
- Government health and science budgets
- Multilateral donors (e.g. WHO, Global Fund, World Bank, Gavi)
- Philanthropic foundations (e.g. Gates Foundation, Wellcome Trust)
- Private sector (biotech, pharma, diagnostics companies)
- Academic consortia and international research grants
- Innovative finance (impact investing, pooled funds, blended finance)
4. Form Strategic Partnerships
- Collaborate with universities, NGOs, private companies, and research institutions to submit joint proposals and share infrastructure and expertise.
- Partnerships improve credibility, increase reach, and open new funding channels.
5. Develop Scalable and Sustainable Program Designs
- Ensure your biomarker initiative has a scalable model, a sustainability plan, and clear milestones.
- Include capacity-building components, local manufacturing potential, and data integration with national health systems to appeal to long-term funders.
6. Package Proposals for Donor Needs
- Tailor proposals to each funder’s interests and language (e.g., innovation, resilience, gender equity, climate-health links).
- Include success stories, community impact, and risk mitigation strategies.
7. Engage in Policy Advocacy
- Work with policymakers to position biomarker programs in national health strategies, which increases access to domestic and external funding.
- Participate in health and innovation policy dialogues and donor forums.
Neftaly’s Support in Securing Funding
Neftaly helps partners:
- Identify relevant funders and funding opportunities
- Develop and write compelling proposals and concept notes
- Facilitate multi-sector partnerships and consortium building
- Design evidence-based investment cases and sustainability strategies
- Build capacity in grant management and reporting
Conclusion
Securing funding for biomarker programs is not only about resources—it’s about making a convincing case for health impact, system innovation, and community empowerment. With a strategic approach, diverse partnerships, and a clear value proposition, biomarker programs can attract the investment needed to transform healthcare.