About 

As part of its 2006-2010 strategic response to MS, Fast Forward was created for the purpose of supporting commercial organizations engaged in the development of new therapies and diagnostic tools for MS. Fast Forward bridges the preclinical commercial funding gap by targeting funds to de-risk therapeutic development. Our goal is catalyze outside investment by funding critical work needed to better-position projects for subsequent commercial development.

Funding to date

Since 2009 the Society has deployed $21.5 million towards commercial research through Fast Forward in 33 projects in the biotech/biopharmaceutical sector and 13 projects at academic institutions. We work closely with similarly-aligned organizations supporting MS commercial research to collectively de-risk the process. This effort has leveraged $8 million from external sources.

Process

Similar to our Research Grant peer review process, Fast Forward engages the brightest minds in MS research to evaluate the scientific merit of proposals. In addition, industry advisors and consultants are brought into the review to ensure that projects are positioned to be viable candidates for future commercial development.

• Applications are received through an annual request for proposals (RFP).
• Companies and academic researchers are eligible to apply.

Funding through Fast Forward involves oversight review by a separate Advisory Committee

Download an executive summary of the National MS Society's Fast Forward funding effort (.pdf)

For more information, please contact: