Conference Support for Rare Neurodevelopmental Disorder Communities Participating in Simons Searchlight

SFARI is accepting applications for funding of Patient Advocacy Group Family Conferences, with a focus on groups in the Simons Searchlight community. This funding is intended to support and enhance the research component of conferences, from scientist presentations to in-person research opportunities for families. It is open to both patient advocacy groups (PAGs) with well-established conferences as well as those in early years of convening families and connecting to science. As they plan their conferences, SFARI encourages PAGs to connect with the SFARI science team who may be able to facilitate connections to scientists with whom to explore possible conference involvement. Funding is offered in three tiers: Tier 1 ($2,500) for groups just getting started planning to mobilize their community; Tier 2 (up to $7,500) for groups planning a significant scientific component with multiple in-person scientist presentations; and Tier 3 (up to $15,000) for groups planning the most significant scientific component featuring both in-person presentations and participatory research for families. The funding is provided as a one-year gift to support conferences scheduled between January 2026 and February 2027.