Milken Institute and ATF announce new Request for Proposals to advance understanding of sarcoidosis

Reviewed by Emily Henderson, B.Sc.Sep 19 2022

The Milken Institute Center for Strategic Philanthropy, in partnership with the Ann Theodore Foundation (ATF), is pleased to announce a new Request for Proposals (RFP) focused on understanding the underlying biology of sarcoidosis, an immune dysregulation condition. The Ann Theodore Foundation Breakthrough Sarcoidosis Initiative is one of the largest investments in sarcoidosis basic science and has the potential to accelerate the speed at which new discoveries and therapies are made.

The second cycle of the Breakthrough Sarcoidosis Initiative funding cycle is open for applications now through Tuesday, January 10, 2023. Teams can apply for funding up to $575,000 over a two-year period. An informational session about the program and the initiative will take place on Wednesday, September 28, at 3:00 p.m. EDT.

Sarcoidosis is hallmarked by clusters of immune cells, known as granulomas, forming in various organs throughout the body. It is often observed in the lungs, but virtually any organ can be impacted. Furthermore, it can be a chronic and devastating condition. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, fatigue, and arrhythmia, and can lead to severe organ damage and death. While anyone can be impacted, it impacts African-American women at higher rates than other demographics.

It's inspiring to see the ways in which strategic philanthropists are stepping up and providing the capital needed to advance understanding of a disease like sarcoidosis."

Melissa Stevens, executive vice president of philanthropy, Milken Institute

This funding program builds on a major Giving Smarter Guide that laid out the critical need to better understand this devastating disease and several promising opportunities for philanthropy to step in. More than $3 million in sarcoidosis-focused research funding was recently awarded to six US-based teams.

SAB member Bob Baughman, President Emeritus of the World Association of Sarcoidosis and other Granulomatous Disorders, added, "We believe this infusion of funds will pave the way toward solutions for those affected by this debilitating disease."

Awardees for this cycle of funding are expected to be notified in spring 2023.