Science-Driven Solutions
Close gaps in early symptom recognition and increase access to clinical, genetic and diagnostic testing.
About Alexion
The Alexion Charitable Foundation
Bringing promise, hope, and belonging to people affected by rare
disease.
Addressing Health Disparities in the Rare Disease Community
The Alexion Charitable Foundation (ACF) is designed to have the most positive impact possible on the communities we serve. Our mission is to address the health disparities within and among the rare disease community.
We invest in projects to ensure that all underserved communities have equitable pathways to the care, services and resources they need to live healthier lives.
Our Funding Priorities
Technology & Innovation
Enhance diagnostic accuracy and speed through technology advances and breakthroughs.
Patient Supports
Help rare disease patients and caregivers access interventions and care throughout the diagnosis journey.
Research & Policy
Support policy generation efforts and lived-experience research focused on diagnostic pathways and systems improvements.
Making an Impact
The ACF is proud of its community partnerships around the world and the impact it has made through its current and past grant making programs. Focused on supporting the rare disease community.
the year ACF was established, bringing the global rare disease community together to help more people.
people reached since 2020 with grants supporting improved healthcare services and resources.
charitable partners in 15 countries around the globe.
grants awarded since 2020 to help make a significant impact on the lives of people affected by rare disease.
For more information on ACF’s historical work and partnerships, see the annual report.
Grant Application Process
The ACF provides funding to third party nonprofit organisations around the world that design and administer programs aligned to funding priorities.
A global open call will take place from August 3–21, 2026. Interested organisations may submit a Preliminary Request Form that summarizes key organisation background information and details of a proposed program/project.
Interested organisations should review the ACF Grant Guidelines and Criteria prior to submitting your Preliminary Request Form.
Participation in the open call does not guarantee funding. All applications will undergo a fulsome review and selection process led by ACF.
The Alexion Charitable Foundation and Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, are separate legal entities with distinct governance and decision-making protocols and procedures. Funding decisions for the Alexion Charitable Foundation are at the sole discretion of the Foundation’s Board of Directors.
Additional resources
Medical Education and Patient Advocacy Grants
Learn more about funding opportunities for independent medical education and advocacy support services around the globe.
Veeva ID: GL/ALL/0052