Significant progress was made towards establishing the framework for a self-sustaining TRANSVAC infrastructure during the project period. The highlights of the completed work are summarized below.
o The current playing field was analysed through literature reviews, interviews, focus groups, and surveys of experts in the vaccine field, and summarized in a Gaps and Needs report and publication.
o Based on the identified gaps and needs of the user base, potential business models and legal structures were explored and down-selected according to selected quantitative and qualitative criteria. A Dynamic business model with bio-holding and contract development partnership aspects was chosen as the preferred operating framework although other opportunities, including additional public funding, will also be pursued when possible.
o A business plan and implementation plan for a sustainable vaccine infrastructure was then developed based on the selected business model. A socioeconomic impact analysis was performed, including key performance indicators to serve benchmarks for measuring the success of the infrastructure.
o Stakeholders in the proposed infrastructure were identified, and catalogued, and important stakeholders were contacted and presented with an outline of the proposal. A corresponding stakeholder contact strategy and dissemination policy were also developed, and the project was presented within numerous relevant external forums.
o Ethical guidelines for the project were written, including a living ethical guidelines document to guide the implementation of the infrastructure and ensure compliance with all relevant statutes.
