Mission:
To accelerate the process of discovery and development of new medical solutions for deadly and debilitating diseases.

About the Organization:
Launched in 2003, FasterCures was formed under the auspices of the Milken Institute, an economic think tank that helps business and public policy leaders identify and implement ideas for creating broad-based prosperity. FasterCures works to align medical research priorities with patients' needs, accelerate analysis and dissemination of best practices in research, facilitate informed investment in medical philanthropy, improve the medical research environment, support innovative and outcomes-oriented programs at research institutions, prioritize translational research across a variety of settings, and incentivize cross-sector collaboration.

Current Programs:
FasterCures programs include the Research Acceleration and Innovation Network (TRAIN), which brings together foundation leaders known for implementing innovative approaches to funding research to help foster innovation throughout the research community; the Philanthropy Advisory Service, a resource designed to help philanthropists understand and evaluate the research and development landscape; and Partnering for Cures, an annual conference that facilitates matchmaking and idea-sharing among philanthropists, research foundations, and biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies. The organization also works to advance regulatory science expertise at the Food and Drug Administration; support innovative programs, practices, and policies at the National Institutes of Health; and advance efforts that bring a sense of urgency to medical research stakeholders. In addition, its Patients Helping Doctors program seeks to develop and enhance efforts that will empower patients to become more engaged in medical research.

Web Site:
The FasterCures Web site features the TRAIN Central Station, an online platform where venture philanthropists interested in supporting medical research can share best practices, new ideas, and relevant tools and resources. In addition, the site provides cancer clinical trials matching service, multimedia resources, a blog, online forums, and recent news and publications.

Funding:
FasterCures receives support from foundations, corporations, and individuals.