Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF)

Women are shaping the future of science and medicine, and the Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF) is proud to support their journeys. From academia to industry, we have played a pivotal role in advancing women scientists, fueling their careers, fostering innovation, and driving groundbreaking discoveries. In honor of #WomensHistoryMonth, we celebrate the exceptional women in our stem cell and regenerative medicine community who are making a lasting impact. ?????? ? Here are some reflections from our women awardees on how MSCRF funding has supported them. ? Dr. Sarah Sunshine: “I am honored to be a part of the MSCRF community and am so fortunate to see the potential benefits that the stem cell therapy has had on my patients who have enrolled in the study.” ? Dr. Alla Danilkovitch: “MSCRF funding helped advance Britecyte's adipose technology for liver diseases and supported the commercial launch of the Liposana product for adipose defects.” ? Dr. Valina Dawson: “MSCRF Funding has allowed research in areas not supported by federal funds, producing new knowledge and advancing the field” ? Dr. Rachana Mishra: “MSCRF has been great to work with. They understand the environment of a start-up and the ability to be agile along the way with us as we try to accomplish our goals.” ? Let's continue to empower women in science and drive innovation that improves lives! ? #WomenInMedicine #WomensHistoryMonth2025 Ruchika Nijhara, Ben Antebi

Join us at the Maryland Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine Tech Showcase! This event, presented by the Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF) and the Maryland Department of Commerce’s Office of Life Science, will highlight the latest advancements in stem cell research and regenerative medicine technology. What to expect: ? Elevator pitches from MSCRF portfolio companies, showcasing their innovative solutions ? Poster presentations featuring promising technologies ? Keynote address & panel discussions on critical industry topics ? A lively Oxford-style debate on key challenges and opportunities ? A networking reception—connecting companies, investors, startups, and stakeholders Our goal? To foster meaningful connections that strengthen Maryland’s stem cell and regenerative medicine ecosystem, driving research forward and improving patient outcomes. While MSCRF facilitates these connections, we do not endorse specific companies or engage in deal-making negotiations. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with leaders in the field and explore collaboration and investment opportunities! REGISTER TODAY -- https://lnkd.in/e8CaSjdF #StemCellResearch #RegenerativeMedicine #Biotech #LifeSciences #MSCRF #Networking #Innovation Ruchika Nijhara, Ben Antebi, Matthew Cimino, PhD

?? February is #AmericanHeartMonth Heart disease remains a leading cause of death worldwide, affecting millions annually. In the U.S. alone, it accounts for 1 in 5 deaths, with 18.2 million adults (6.7% of the population) living with coronary artery disease. Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF) has invested $24.6 million in research at leading companies and research institutions in Maryland to address cardiovascular diseases. In 2024, 8% of our funding was specifically allocated to advancing cardiac treatments. Our funded projects explore innovative approaches such as: ?? Using stem cells to repair damaged heart tissue ?? Developing new methods to mature stem cell-derived heart cells ?? Enhancing cardiac function through cellular therapies MSCRF recognizes the 2024 grant awardees who are driving progress in cardiac health: -???????Rachana Mishra (Secretome Therapeutics) -???????Mark Ranek (Johns Hopkins University) -???????Emmanouil Tampakakis (Johns Hopkins University) -???????Wenshen Wang (Kennedy Krieger Institute) MSCRF supports scientists and companies by funding innovative stem cell research and regenerative medicine initiatives. Our mission is to expedite the development of new medical strategies for treating human disecases and conditions, ensuring these advancements reach patients swiftly. To date, MSCRF has allocated $208 million to advance over 650 cutting-edge technologies. Ruchika Nijhara, Ben Antebi

?? January is #GlaucomaAwarenessMonth! ?? Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness world wide, characterized by progressive eye disease damage to the optic nerve, often linked to increased eye pressure. In the U.S., an estimated 2.4 million people (2.9% of the population) have undiagnosed and untreated glaucoma. Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF) recognizes our awardees (see below) who are making significant strides in regenerative medicine to combat glaucoma: ?? Post-Doctoral Fellowship Award: Joseph Mertz (Johns Hopkins University) Rebecca Fawcett (University of Maryland - Baltimore) - Not pictured ?? Discovery Award: Robert Johnston (Johns Hopkins University) Thomas Johnson III (Johns Hopkins University) ?? Validation Award: Sheikh Amer Riazuddin? (Johns Hopkins University) For MSCRF’s 2024 funding, the visual system accounted for 9% of total allocations and continues to gain traction. At MSCRF, our mission is to accelerate the development of new regenerative medicine strategies for treating human diseases, injuries, and conditions, ensuring these advancements reach patients as quickly as possible. Let’s raise awareness about glaucoma and support the incredible work being done to improve eye health! #RegenerativeMedicine #EyeHealth #Innovation #Ophthalmology #MSCRF Ben Antebi, Ruchika Nijhara

We're excited to announce that the Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF) 2024 Annual Report is now available on our website (weblink below). We invite you to explore the report to learn more about how MSCRF-funded initiatives are driving impactful change in the scientific community. Thank you for your continued support of our mission to advance stem cell research and innovation. https://lnkd.in/eff8sQHw Ruchika Nijhara, Ben Antebi

The Requests for Applications (RFAs) for the Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF) second FY25 funding cycle are available. RFAs are open for seven MSCRF grant programs: Manufacturing Assistance, Clinical, Validation, Commercialization, Discovery, Fellowship, and Launch. ??? Application Deadline: January 13, 2025 ?? Application Submission Portal Opens: November 8, 2024 MSCRF's diverse funding programs are designed to support stem cell research at various stages, providing essential resources for scientists advancing human stem cell science in Maryland. Notably, organizations (companies/non-profit entities) outside Maryland can also apply for the MSCRF Grant Programs if their projects are conducted within the state. Additional Funding: Eligible applicants can receive an extra $100,000 above the maximum award for partnerships with Maryland-based companies or universities, fostering public-private collaboration. For more information on each grant program, eligibility criteria, application guidelines, and to access the application portal, visit www.MSCRF.org Don’t miss your chance to submit your application by January 13, 2025! Let’s advance the future of stem cell research together! #MSCRF, #StemCellResearch, #FundingOpportunity, #RegenerativeMedicine, #Maryland Ruchika Nijhara, Ben Antebi

Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF), Jon Rowley, Patrick Hanley, Ph.D., Brock Reeve, Matthew Cimino, PhD, Mo Heidaran, Ruchika Nijhara, Ben Antebi

On December 4th, TEDCO’s Entrepreneur Expo will host an insightful session on the future of regenerative medicine and stem cell technologies. This expert-led panel will dive into the key steps and hurdles in commercializing these transformative therapies, covering scientific, regulatory, and funding challenges. If you're an innovator, entrepreneur, or researcher looking to advance regenerative medicine, don’t miss this chance to gain valuable strategies and insights. Reserve your spot today: https://lnkd.in/ej9Da_MW #TEDCOExpo #RegenerativeMedicine #HealthcareInnovation #Biotech #Entrepreneurship

Join us for an insightful webinar that will provide an overview of funding opportunities and resources available in Maryland for the commercialization of stem cell and regenerative medicine technologies. Whether you are a small startup or an established company in the field, this session will highlight grant opportunities from the Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF), TEDCO’s SBIR programs, and Maryland’s Biotechnology Investment Incentive Tax Credit (BIITC). Don’t miss out — register today to secure your spot! Registration Link: https://lnkd.in/eUdXsFz5 ????????????????????????????????????????????????????????? Panelists: ? Ruchika Nijhara, Executive Director, MD Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF) Kim Mozingo, Vice President of Federal Programs, TEDCO Matthew Cimino, PhD, Sr. Manager, Business Dev., MD Dept. of Commerce ? Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF) is state -supported fund to accelerate stem cell research, treatment, and cures by providing grants to companies, non-profit organizations and scientists. This funding spans various stages of technology development, ranging from basic research to translational research, clinical development, and product manufacturing. TEDCO, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, enhances economic empowerment growth through the fostering of an inclusive entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem. TEDCO offers programs that support Maryland companies in their SBIR/STTR applications and beyond award. Maryland Department of Commerce: As the state's primary economic development agency, we stimulate private investment and create jobs by attracting new businesses, encouraging the expansion and retention of existing companies, and providing workforce training and financial assistance to Maryland companies. Email: [email protected] for any questions.

Funding Opportunity for the Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Community! Exciting news! The Requests for Applications (RFAs) for the Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF) second FY25 funding cycle are now officially open. RFAs are open for seven grant programs: Manufacturing Assistance, Clinical, Validation, Commercialization, Discovery, Fellowship, and Launch. ??? Application Deadline: January 13, 2025 ?? Application Submission Portal Opens: November 8, 2024 MSCRF's diverse funding programs are designed to support stem cell research at various stages, providing essential resources for scientists advancing human stem cell science in Maryland. Notably, organizations (companies/non-profit entities) outside Maryland can also apply for the MSCRF Grant Programs if their projects are conducted within the state. Additional Funding: Eligible applicants can receive an extra $100,000 above the maximum award for partnerships with Maryland-based companies or universities, fostering public-private collaboration. For more information on each grant program, eligibility criteria, application guidelines, and to access the application portal, visit www.MSCRF.org Don’t miss your chance to submit your application by January 13, 2025! Let’s advance the future of stem cell research together! #MSCRF #StemCellResearch #FundingOpportunity #RegenerativeMedicine #Maryland Ruchika Nijhara, Ben Antebi