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MDA Venture Philanthropy (MVP) is a program of the Muscular Dystrophy Association solely devoted to funding the development and commercialization of new treatments for neuromuscular diseases. MVP operates within MDA's greater Translational Research Program. It is a response to fundamental changes in the not-for-profit landscape and is focused on accelerating drug development.
Adapting elements of the venture capital model, the MVP business plan is characterized by an emphasis on measurable results along with deep involvement by its scientific and industry advisers. MVP evaluates and makes targeted investments in for-profit and not-for-profit companies and academics developing therapeutics for neuromuscular diseases, with a particular emphasis on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease), Duchenne muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy. Portfolios for additional diseases will be created as quality projects in those areas become available.
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Building upon MDA's long-term investment in research and health care, MVP benefits from the experience gained during six years of funding industry projects through the MDA Translational Research Program. MVP is designed to complement MDA's ongoing programs of health care, lifesaving services, advocacy, basic and clinical research, and professional and public health information. MVP also benefits from MDA's other research programs that support basic research, clinical trials and research infrastructure.
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