Our Funding Approach

We are continually seeking to invest in novel research projects and identify researchers with whom we can form partnerships.

When investigating a potential research project, we take the time to carefully assess each opportunity in-depth. We evaluate the originality of the idea, the quality of the project/team and the potential impact. We follow a five-stage process to review and evaluate opportunities. The duration of each stage depends on the complexity and scope of the project under consideration. On average, this process can last 6-18 months.

Idea
Discussion
Proposal
Decision
Grant Management

Idea

Our Research team works to identify new and exciting areas of research and new hypotheses that align with the Foundation’s strategic direction and current areas of interest. Ideas are discovered through interactions with researchers, universities, foundations, research institutes and through attendance at local, national and international conferences. Should a research project align with our current interests, our Research team will make contact to continue further discussions.

Discussion

During this stage, there is ongoing communication between the Foundation’s Research team and the researcher to discuss their lab’s area of interest and where it might fit in the Krembil Foundation’s strategic plan. We are committed to understanding the project, and we will take the time to fully grasp the scientific questions and research area under consideration as part of our due diligence.

Proposal

It is important to note, the Krembil Foundation does not accept unsolicited proposals. All potential partners must go through the Idea and Discussion stages of our process before the Foundation will consider inviting a researcher to submit a funding proposal. We will provide guidance to the applicant with the appropriate requirements for the proposal including budget, milestones, and timeline.

Decision

We evaluate funding opportunities on a case-by-case basis. Proposals are reviewed at various levels depending on the complexity of the grant. We have a strategic selection process and work diligently to ensure awarded funding reflects our current areas of interest. Funding proposals are reviewed, evaluated, and submitted to the Foundation’s board of directors for a final decision.

Grant Management

When a proposal has been approved by our Board, the grantee will work with our Grant Administrator to develop a grant agreement that outlines the expectations and conditions related to the awarded project. When funding commences, we expect open and ongoing dialogue and encourage frequent interactions with our partners to discuss research progress, challenges, outcomes and new opportunities. To truly be a partner, we require a deep understanding of the grant, and commitment from each individual grantee. This will allow us to rapidly respond to, and work with, researchers to accelerate their projects.

Kate Williams, a woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, is wearing a gray blazer and light blue shirt. She's smiling against a plain background, exuding professionalism and warmth.

Kate Wiliams, PhD

Scientific Director

Dr. Kate Williams is the Scientific Director at the Krembil Foundation.  Reporting to the President and CEO, she advances the Foundation’s research initiatives by identifying high-risk, high-reward research opportunities. With a PhD in neuroscience and deep insights into the research landscape, she leads the Foundation’s strategic research direction, and oversees the Foundation’s research portfolios.

In her role, Kate fosters relationships with key opinion leaders, researchers, institutes, and universities, ensuring the Foundation’s strategic leadership in developing and evolving its research investments.  This includes actively managing key investments, where regular updates with funded researchers, meticulous monitoring of research progress, and evaluation of milestones and deliverables are integral responsibilities.