IBD Ventures FAQs
What is IBD Ventures?
IBD Ventures is a funding mechanism intended to accelerate the discovery and development of novel research-based products with the potential to alleviate suffering caused by inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
What types of potential products may receive funding?
Any research-based product with the potential to address an unmet need of IBD patients will be considered.
Who is eligible for this program?
We anticipate that the majority of recipients will be companies with a primary focus on product discovery and/or development. Companies should have independent operations, appropriate capabilities and full-time staff. Investigators at academic institutions are also eligible if they can access appropriate resources for product development.
How can I access program information and application forms?
Application may be accessed and must be submitted through proposalCENTRAL: https://proposalcentral.altum.com/ Navigate to the ‘Grant Opportunities’ tab (top right) and filter by grant maker (select ‘Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’) to find the application link for IBD Ventures.
Is there a deadline?
Yes. Applicants may submit a Letter of Intent at any time and these are reviewed twice per year. Letter of Intent deadlines are typically in February and August, but please see main page for updated deadline dates. If an applicant is invited to prepare a Full Application, that will be due approximately 1 month after the applicant receives that invitation.
Should I submit a Letter of Intent (LOI) even if I am not eligible for this program or not interested in this type of funding support?
No. However, all parties who are interested in engaging with the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation regarding development of a product for IBD are welcome to contact IBD Ventures staff to discuss other relevant Foundation resources including future funding opportunities, advising, clinical trial recruitment assistance, and presentation opportunities. Please send any questions to [email protected].
How will full proposals be reviewed?
Full proposals will be reviewed by a multidisciplinary committee comprised of industry scientists; academic scientists; clinical experts; entrepreneurs; business development and venture professionals; and IBD patients.
Can I submit a full proposal if I have not previously submitted a Letter of Intent?
No.
Will the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation treat submitted materials in a confidential manner?
Yes. Full proposals will be treated as confidential and a confidentiality agreement will be provided in advance of submission. If the applicant would like the LOI to be treated as confidential, a confidentiality agreement may be requested in advance of LOI submission.
Will the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation offer additional resources for awardees in addition to funding?
Yes. Accelerator resources will be provided to support ventures, including scientific and strategic advising, according to the needs of each funded program.
Is IBD Ventures project-based?
Yes, funding will be project-based funding with specific milestones established in advance.
Will the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation ask for equity in funded companies?
No.
Will awards be associated with a financial commitment?
Yes. If the funded technology is successfully commercialized, payment would be due back to the Foundation.
What should be the estimated duration of funded programs?
Approximately one year.
Will funded programs be eligible for extended funding beyond the first year?
Yes, especially if milestones are achieved.
Are there any limitations as to the type of product that might be funded?
No, so long as there is clear potential for benefit for IBD patients.
Are commercial-stage or public companies eligible for IBD Ventures?
Yes, any company meeting the eligibility criteria is eligible to apply.