Reynolds has put millions into their affiliate doing plant molecular biology. Mapp Biopharmaceuticals, LeafBio and Defyrus Inc. are only three concerns investing in research in this field, there are others worldwide.
Government funding is "seed" money to support research and manufacture. (Republicans are limiting this funding, but it is hard for them to attack items in defense budgets.

The U. S. maintains a number of research institutions, some within or borderline with defense and anti-terrorism departments, which is the case here. The possibility of disease use by terrorists/enemies is a continuing concern.

When an effective vaccine is obtained, private concerns will make and market it.