Rare Belonging Grants

The Alexion Charitable Foundation, established in 2020 by Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, is committed to supporting underserved communities within the rare disease space through strategic philanthropic investment. As an extension of Alexion’s dedication to improving lives affected by rare diseases, the foundation seeks to create equitable access to care, services, and support systems. The Rare Belonging grant program is the foundation’s signature initiative, focusing on fostering a sense of inclusion, support, and belonging among individuals, caregivers, and families impacted by rare conditions. The Rare Belonging program is structured around three core funding priorities: Mental Health & Wellness, Barriers to Care, and Health Literacy. The foundation targets systemic challenges faced by those with rare diseases by funding projects that improve access to mental health services, reduce logistical and knowledge-related barriers to healthcare, and empower communities through health education. Grant recipients have historically included nonprofit organizations that design programs for emotional support, patient navigation, professional training, and public health awareness campaigns. Only disease-agnostic nonprofit organizations—those that serve individuals affected by any rare disease, as opposed to condition-specific groups—are eligible for funding. Applicants must be tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code or the international equivalent and must demonstrate an ability to reach national or global audiences. Organizations must also have strong governance, multi-source financial support, and a record of delivering measurable impact. The foundation prohibits funding for individuals, religious groups without public outreach, and organizations engaging in political or discriminatory practices. Applications are accepted once annually during an open call cycle announced on the foundation's website. A formal grant application is required, which must affirm alignment with Rare Belonging’s focus areas and objectives. Only one application per organization is permitted each year. Although the application process is currently closed, recurring annual cycles mean interested parties can expect a new cycle in the following year, with updated timelines typically released on the website. Each grant awarded requires recipients to submit a comprehensive Impact Report within 60 days of the conclusion of the grant period, detailing the program's outcomes, expenditures, and qualitative impacts such as beneficiary stories. Grantees who fail to report are disqualified from future funding. Emergency response grants may also be considered separately in times of crisis, focusing on transportation, accommodations, and urgent financial needs of the rare disease community. For inquiries or technical support during the application process, organizations may email [email protected]. Additional resources, including program criteria and budget templates, are available on the Alexion Charitable Foundation's website.

Reach and outcome measurability prioritized by funder.