News Brief: FDA Explores New Contracting Model to Boost Public Health Innovation

On December 19, 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) inviting feedback from venture capital firms on a proposed new contracting model designed to strengthen collaboration with innovative companies driving breakthroughs in public health.

The initiative comes as the agency seeks to tap emerging technologies — including artificial intelligence, biotechnology, medical devices, and regulatory technology — more effectively by working directly with startups and their backers. Traditional federal contracting mechanisms, the FDA says, often favor large intermediaries focused on labor-based services, limiting early-stage firms’ ability to engage with government projects.

Under the proposed structure, qualified venture capital firms could establish pre-approved relationships with the FDA, enabling their portfolio companies to compete for task orders supporting research, technology deployment, and regulatory innovation. Input is being solicited on key issues such as qualification criteria, administrative considerations, intellectual property protections, and compliance frameworks.

FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H., said the approach aims to “harness innovative capabilities and work directly with American entrepreneurs” rather than relying on traditional middlemen. Jeremy Walsh, the agency’s Chief AI Officer, emphasized the need for “direct access to American innovation.”

Responses to the RFI are due by 2 p.m. EST on January 18, 2026, and the FDA is particularly interested in input from venture capital firms.