Universal Platform for Living Adaptive Toxin-removal (UNI-PLAT)

The Universal Platform for Living Adaptive Toxin-removal (UNI-PLAT) is a Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) solicitation issued by ARPA-H under the Department of Health and Human Services. The program seeks to catalyze the development of a programmable, plug-and-play synthetic biology platform capable of creating next-generation microbial chassis. While the initial proof-of-concept focuses on toxin removal for chronic disease management, the intended platform must be adaptable for broader applications in biomanufacturing, agriculture, environmental remediation, therapeutic discovery, and holistic medicine. This total small business set-aside opportunity, identified by solicitation number ARPA-H 03, requires a response by September 30, 2027. Awarded contracts are structured with a maximum performance period of 24 months for Phase I and 36 months for Phase II, with potential short-term extensions of up to 6 months. Proposals are evaluated based on technical merit, novelty, team expertise, and the path to health outcomes, with a strong emphasis on the ARPA-H Heilmeier Questions and equitable access. Required submission materials include a four-page solution summary, a key personnel worksheet, a 16-slide oral technical presentation, a Task Description Document, a Gantt chart, and a detailed cost proposal. Funding may include Technical and Business Assistance (TABA) requests of up to 6,500 dollars for Phase I and 50,000 dollars for Phase II. All deliverables must comply with Revised 508 Standards for accessibility, and payment is processed electronically via the Department of Treasury Invoice Processing Platform.