Company: National Stem Cell Foundation

Founded In:  2005

Number of Employees: 6

Describe what your organization does in two sentences:

We fund adult stem cell research and clinical trials in four focus areas – neurodegenerative disease, autoimmune disease, regenerative repair and rare childhood disease – and cover deductibles and co-pays for children of limited means participating in clinical trials for rare diseases. We also underwrite the National STEM Scholar program, an advanced STEM training and “big idea” project support program for middle school teachers nationwide.

Who do you serve?

People suffering from diseases that affect many millions worldwide, and children in the U.S. at the tipping point of lifelong science interest – middle school.

One fact you may not know about my organization is… 

We’re conducting a first-in-man study of neurodegeneration in microgravity that will launch to the ISS (International Space Station) for a 4^th time on May 1.  The study carries cells from patients with Parkinson’s disease and progressive MS to space for observations not possible on Earth.

What sets your business apart from others in the way you attract and retain talent? 

Our mission.

What do you like about being an investor in Greater Louisville Inc.?  

The opportunity to network and find sounding boards for ideas under consideration and challenges as they arise.

How does your organization engage in the community? 

We hosted a NASA In-flight Education Downlink that streamed live globally from the 4-story digital theater at KSC (Kentucky Science Center) and brought 1,200 students, teachers, and parents downtown for science demonstrations at KSC and the Frazier History Museum. Pre-pandemic, we hosted an annual dinner for presentations by nationally or internationally known thought leaders in education brought to Kentucky for engagement with the National STEM Scholar Program. We hope to resume those dinners this year.

How can people engage with your organization?  

We have volunteer opportunities for the set up and conduct of swabbing events to add potential donors to the National Bone Marrow Registry. Additional volunteer opportunities are in development.