Ready, Set...ID the Biothreat Challenge
Use AI to help the DHS identify biological threats
The Ready, Set...ID the Biothreat Challenge is an AI-assisted algorithmic challenge seeking the development and demonstration of computational, artificially intelligent algorithms. These algorithms will detect known, novel, and unknown biological threats in environmental metagenomic datasets.
Participants are invited to develop innovative algorithmic approaches capable of recognizing the fundamental hallmarks of biological threats of all types.
The challenge will be in three stages.
| Key information | |
|---|---|
| Sponsoring agency | U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Prize Competitions |
| Start date | 9/8/2026 9:30 AM ET |
| End date | 10/14/2026 12:00 PM ET |
| Challenge type |
|
| Prizes |
|
| Contact | PrizeAuthority@hq.dhs.gov |
Apply for the Ready, Set...ID the Biothreat Challenge
These federal prize competitions are conducted pursuant to the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010, as amended by the American Innovation and Competitiveness Act of 2017. For complete rules, eligibility requirements, and terms and conditions, please visit the hosting agency's competition page.
LAST UPDATED: September 8, 2026
Have a question?
Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.
Call USAGov
Chat with USAGov