MDA Venture Philanthropy Program

Geographic Scope: United States and International

Program Description

MDA's Venture Philanthropy model provides strategic funding for drug development and clinical trials with a focus on translating research into therapies. This program uses innovative funding mechanisms including returns on investment based on future drug sales.

Focus Areas

• Phase 1 and other clinical trial funding
• Drug development acceleration
• Moving therapies from laboratory to clinic
• Novel therapeutic approaches

Notable Example

VBP15 Program (ReveraGen BioPharma):

• International consortium funding model
• MDA participated in coordinated venture philanthropy
• $2 million provided for Phase 1 clinical trial of VBP15 for Duchenne muscular dystrophy
• Funding structured to provide return on investment based on future drug sales
• Multiple funding organizations: MDA, Joining Jack Foundation (UK), The Duchenne Research Fund (UK), Duchenne Children's Trust (UK)
• Multiple tranches of funding as milestones achieved

Strategic Approach

• Co-funding arrangements with other nonprofits, government agencies, and pharmaceutical companies
• Focus on reducing time from drug development to FDA approval
• Supporting promising compounds showing efficacy in preclinical studies
• Emphasis on therapies addressing unmet medical needs

Contact Information

• Phone: 800-572-1717
• Email: ResourceCenter@mdausa.org
• Address: MDA, 1016 W Jackson Blvd #1073, Chicago, IL 60607

Application Process

Venture Philanthropy is typically not a traditional grant application program. Instead:

Approach:

• Innovative companies with promising drug candidates approach MDA and other organizations
• MDA evaluates fit with strategic priorities
• Coordinated funding through consortium model
• Based on milestones and de-risking of drug development

Contact for Inquiries:

• Phone: 800-572-1717
• Email: ResourceCenter@mdausa.org (or research team contact)
• Website: mda.org (Science & Research > Funding Opportunities)

Note: Companies and organizations interested in venture philanthropy partnerships should contact MDA's research department directly to discuss opportunities.