Texas Biomedical Forum

The Texas Biomedical Forum is a nonprofit organization founded in 1970, dedicated to supporting the Texas Biomedical Research Institute (Texas Biomed) through fundraising, community relations, and volunteer services. The Forum is a membership-based organization comprising women over the age of 21, whose mission is to raise awareness and funds for scientific research.

Mission and Activities

The Texas Biomedical Forum's primary objective is to fund early-phase research, particularly pilot studies, at Texas Biomed. These funds are crucial for scientists to initiate novel research concepts, collect preliminary data, and subsequently apply for larger grants from federal agencies and other funding bodies. Over the years, the Forum has supported research in diverse areas, including aging, HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, Ebola, and COVID-19.

Fundraising Efforts

The Forum raises funds through annual membership dues, educational events, social gatherings, and its signature event, the Forum Gala, held annually in May. This gala is a prominent fundraising event in San Antonio and has contributed significantly to the organization's success. Recent years have seen record-breaking donations, with the 2024 donation exceeding $960,000, marking the largest in the Forum's history[1][3].

Impact

The Texas Biomedical Forum's contributions have been instrumental in leveraging substantial subsequent funding for Texas Biomed. As of recent reports, the Forum has awarded over $4.8 million in pilot grants, which have facilitated the acquisition of more than $90 million in competitive grants[3]. This impact underscores the organization's role in advancing scientific research and supporting the development of new treatments and cures.

History and Legacy

Since its inception, the Texas Biomedical Forum has been a vital part of the Texas Biomed community, fostering a culture of scientific advancement and community engagement. Its efforts have helped position Texas Biomed as a leading research institute in the United States, contributing to global health initiatives and infectious disease research[3][4].