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PRESS RELEASE

The Wistar Institute Awarded $2 Million RACP Grant from Shapiro Administration for New Center for Advanced Therapeutics

RACP Investment Strengthens Regional Life Science Sector

PHILADELPHIA — (Nov. 27, 2024) — Governor Josh Shapiro’s Administration, through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), has granted The Wistar Institute $2 million to fund its new Center for Advanced Therapeutics. The Center will focus on early-stage drug discovery that bridges innovation in immunotherapy and vaccine biology to accelerate next-generation therapies and medicines.

“Wistar and its scientists are grateful to the Shapiro Administration and the Philadelphia Delegation in our state Capitol for their forward-looking investment in Wistar and foundational biomedical research as an unparalleled engine for creating the medicines of the future,” said Wistar president and CEO Dario Altieri, M.D., director of the Ellen and Ronald Caplan Cancer Center, and the Robert and Penny Fox Distinguished Professor. “Through the generous support of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, we will be able to bring to life a bold vision for our region, accelerating the pace of medical discovery, fostering innovation, and spearheading the launch of public-private partnerships for the benefit of all.”  

The funds support construction & renovation of the new Center from existing space within The Wistar Institute. More than 12,000 square feet of space will be converted into state-of-the-science laboratories.  

The RACP is a Commonwealth reimbursement grant program administered by the Pennsylvania Office of Budget. It provides financial assistance for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, and historical improvement projects.

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ABOUT THE WISTAR INSTITUTE:

The Wistar Institute is the nation’s first independent nonprofit institution devoted exclusively to foundational biomedical research and training. Since 1972, the Institute has held National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Cancer Center status. Through a culture and commitment to biomedical collaboration and innovation, Wistar science leads to breakthrough early-stage discoveries and life science sector start-ups. Wistar scientists are dedicated to solving some of the world’s most challenging problems in the field of cancer and immunology, advancing human health through early-stage discovery and training the next generation of biomedical researchers. wistar.org