The candidate, known as mRNA-1018, is positioned to become the first mRNA-based vaccine against bird flu to proceed into a pivotal clinical trial, according to Moderna.
The funding comes from the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), a global partnership dedicated to speeding up vaccine development for epidemic and pandemic risks.
Under the terms of the agreement, Moderna will allocate 20% of its manufacturing capacity for low- and middle-income countries, ensuring access at affordable prices in the event of a pandemic.
The initiative forms part of a larger program aimed at producing vaccines within 100 days of identifying a new pandemic threat.
The pivotal trial is scheduled to start in early 2026 in the United Kingdom and the United States. It will build on prior research demonstrating robust immune responses in healthy adults. Results from Moderna's current seasonal influenza vaccine study will also contribute to the regulatory approval process.
"Pandemic influenza remains one of the greatest threats to global health security," CEPI CEO Richard Hatchett said. "By harnessing the speed and adaptability of mRNA technology, we could deliver vaccines faster and at scale."
In contrast to traditional influenza vaccines, which rely on growing virus in eggs or cell cultures—a process that often requires several months—mRNA vaccines can be designed within hours or days once the genetic sequence of the virus is available and rapidly manufactured.
