Emerging biotechnology companies and academic researchers often indicate that their greatest challenge is access to funding, in part because VC funding has declined and is leaning toward later-stage assets.  At the same time, foundation funding opportunities have increased in terms of the breadth of funding options available and the size of the grants/investments these organizations are making.  Furthermore, the benefits of foundation funding extend well beyond the cash offered.  Recipients also receive access to thought leaders and a “stamp of approval” from a well-recognized body of experts.  Additionally, foundation funding is typically non-dilutive, and company executives need not be concerned about giving up control of their companies.

This Biotech Forum’s purpose is to inform the corporate and academic communities regarding this important and relatively new source of funding.  The discussion will focus on topics such as best practices for receiving foundation funding and how to develop and make the most out of relationships with these organizations.

Speakers (see bios below):

• Bob Beall, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
• Tracey Mumford, Associate Director, Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research
• Eileen Neacy, Chief Operating Officer, CHDI Foundation (Huntington’s Disease)
• Max Wallace, Chief Executive Officer, Accelerate Brain Cancer Cure
• Peter Ginsberg, Vice President, Business & Technology Development, North Carolina Biotechnology Center (Moderator)