Chiesi Global Rare Diseases Launches Grant Initiative to Support Research into LSDs

Rare Daily Staff

Chiesi Global Rare Diseases has launched Find For Rare, a new grant initiative to provide grants up to $65,000 (€50,000) to researchers to support their work into lysosomal storage disorders.

Lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) are inborn errors of metabolism, rare genetic disorders characterized by defective functioning of lysosomes. While these disorders can be rare individually, their prevalence is significant at a global level with an estimated one in 8,000 people diagnosed.

The Find For Rare Research Grant Initiative has been designed to support original research projects that advance knowledge in the fields of Fabry disease, alpha-mannosidosis, and cystinosis. The categories of research eligible for funding are projects aimed at improving understanding of the factors affecting diseases, from pathogenesis to progression, and studies of patient tailored clinical management.

Applications will be evaluated by the independent Steering Committee according to defined assessment criteria: strength of the proposed research project, innovation and novelty, relevance and impact, and potential for success. Depending on the number and quality of applications, based on the review by the Steering Committee, the total number of grants and total amount per project awarded may vary.

Chiesi Global Rare Diseases set aside a total of $165,000 (€150,000), and researchers can apply for grants up to $65,000 (€50,000) per project. Proposals are welcome from all global regions other than the Americas.

Further information regarding the initiative and the application process can be found at findforrare.com. The application deadline is October 31, 2024. The grants will be awarded in the first quarter of 2025.

“There is a societal obligation to address issues impacting the estimated 400 million living with a rare disease,” said Enrico Piccinini, head of Europe and International for Chiesi Global Rare Diseases. “Our real hope is this year’s Find For Rare initiative will provide future solutions to today’s challenging rare conditions.”