Shurl and Kay Curci Foundation
/OVERVIEW: The California-based Shurl and Kay Curci Foundation funds biomedical research in a handful of fields, though the majority of grants support neuroscience and brain research.
IP TAKE: Curci tends to support organizations with which it is familiar and has already funded making this funder’s grantmaking a crowded space. While newcomers appear on its rosters each year, they are rare. This foundation’s sparse website limits insight into grantmaking strategies. While its grantmaking in its stated giving areas is generous, it is often focused on institutions rather than individuals or smaller organizations. This is not an accessible funder. Although Curci awards grants to universities and scientific research organizations throughout the country, it prioritizes those located in California.
PROFILE: Formerly known as the TDC Foundation, the Shurl and Kay Curci Foundation was founded by real estate developer Shurl Curci, chairman of the Transpacific Development Company, and his wife. It aims to fund “science-based research striving for the advancement of a healthy and sustainable future for humans.” It primarily funds “basic research addressing fundamental scientific questions” that may lead to significant advancements in the fields of neuroscience/brain science, regenerative medicine, cell biology, cancer, nanotechnology, and others.
Grants for Science Research and Diseases
Curci’s grants for research in areas such as regenerative medicine, nanotechnology and cancer typically benefit large universities and research centers. For example, Curci has funded the U.C. Berkeley Foundation for its department of molecular and cell biology, as well as Carnegie Mellon University’s work in novel cellular strategies to target pain in drug addiction. The Curci Foundation makes regular annual Children Hospital and Research Center.
Grants for Brain and Cell Research
Given its mission, Curci typically supports research projects at large universities and medical institutions. It does not name specific grantmaking strategies, preferring to consider a range of proposals, but its main focus in this area is on neuroscience and cell biology. Past grantees include Stanford University, which received a grant to support its migrating glioblastoma project, and the University of California, San Francisco, which received support for its research into brain tumor heterogeneity.
Important Grant Details:
Curci typically awards around 10 to 15 grants per year, ranging in size from $50,000 to $200,000. The foundation does not accept unsolicited grant applications or requests for funding. Its website provides some basic information for grantseekers, but those with further questions should contact the foundation directly.
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