Donor-Inspired Studies
Do you care deeply about a certain disease or a particular area of animal health research? Do you dream of making a real difference in the lives of animals everywhere?
LOOK NO FURTHER - YOU'RE IN THE RIGHT PLACE!
Introducing Morris Animal Foundation’s exclusive Donor-Inspired Study program, where your passion meets purpose in the most impactful way imaginable. Here's how it works: you, our valued donor, have the incredible opportunity to directly support an animal health research topic that ignites your passion - one that the Foundation isn't already funding but is desperately needed.
Imagine being part of a journey where your voice matters, where your dedication to improving the lives of animals steers the course of cutting-edge research. With our Donor-Inspired Study program, you're not just a donor; you're a catalyst for change, a driving force behind the discoveries that will shape the future of animal health.
From exploring new treatments for diseases to uncovering innovative solutions for wildlife conservation, your generosity paves the way for transformative breakthroughs. Join us in reshaping animal health research as we work together to translate passion into tangible outcomes.
“While it’s critically important to continue to advance treatments for devastating health conditions such as colic and founder, there aren’t enough resources being spent looking into horses’ psychological health. I have always wanted to help remedy that lack of funding – and when I had the funds to be able to do so, I wanted to partner with Morris Animal Foundation because I knew they would do a good job. Animal behavior is a true passion of mine and I hope this call will result in some valuable findings. I will forever be grateful to the Foundation for working with me on this project.”
– Wendy Koch, DVM, Veterinarian and funder of Donor-Inspired Studies at the Foundation
How does it work?
Donor Vision & RFP Development
Each Donor-Inspired Study journey is designed to identify the most impactful research projects aligned with donor goals. The process starts with discussions between the donor and Foundation staff, where the donor outlines their area of interest and funding commitment.
RFP Process & Approvals
If the donor's topic of interest is approved, the donor partners with Foundation staff to create a Request for Proposals for researchers to apply for funding. Researchers submit proposals to be reviewed by a Scientific Advisory Board comprised of experts in that particular area of research. The donor is then invited to the Scientific Advisory Board meeting where proposals are reviewed and funding recommendations are determined. Using the recommendations of the Board and with assistance from Foundation staff, the donor selects what is ultimately funded through their support.
Contracting & Active Grant
This process allows the Foundation to be donor-centric and fund research that is important to our supporters, while still ensuring each study meets the highest levels of scientific rigor and impact through our parallel grantmaking processes. Because of the multiple stages and many stakeholders involved, the Donor-Inspired Study process takes at least 12 months from topic conception to study contracting. Throughout the life of the grant, donors will be provided with progress reports and a final report of findings from the research team. Interested in partnering or learning more?
