XPRIZE Healthspan has launched the largest prize in its history, offering a total prize pool of $101 million to stimulate innovations in healthspan and aging.

The competition has already attracted an impressive 510 teams from 54 countries, surpassing its initial goal of 300 teams, with notable participation from the United States, Canada, and China.

To support diverse participation, XPRIZE Healthspan will allow discretionary late registrations until 2027, accommodating teams that require additional time to refine their proposals.

Jamie Justice, Executive Director of XPRIZE Healthspan, is urging researchers to submit their entries before the December 20, 2024 deadline, emphasizing the competition's role in advancing longevity science.

Currently, about 50% of the participating teams are for-profit organizations, while academic teams make up approximately 18-20% of the entrants, a number that is expected to grow as the deadline approaches.

The competition is structured to foster collaboration between academic institutions and companies, which could enhance the likelihood of success for the participating teams.

Teams must demonstrate their capacity to conduct clinical trials and must have an established entity to receive prize money if they win, although they are not required to be formal businesses.

Participants are encouraged to submit detailed proposals that outline their research and therapeutic approaches, with feedback provided to all submissions to help improve their chances in future rounds.

The primary aim of the prize is not only to identify innovative therapeutics but also to advance aging research and improve methodologies for measuring aging.

Justice has expressed enthusiasm for the project, viewing it as a significant opportunity to decentralize and democratize longevity research, and is optimistic about the engagement and support received so far.

While teams can submit applications after the December 20 deadline, late submissions may miss initial funding opportunities and the first judging round.

Justice encourages teams to reach out for guidance, urging hesitant participants to submit their ideas regardless of their current readiness.