Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation (ADDF)

The Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation (ADDF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to rapidly accelerating the development of drugs to prevent, treat, and cure Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Founded in 1998 by Leonard A. and Ronald S. Lauder, the ADDF operates on a venture philanthropy model, funding breakthrough research in both academic institutions and the biotechnology industry. Its headquarters are located in New York, NY.

The ADDF's core services include providing funding for early-stage drug discovery, clinical trials, biomarker development, and prevention programs globally. The organization focuses on translational research, aiming to convert scientific understanding of Alzheimer's causes into effective treatments. Notable contributions include providing seed funding for Amyvid, the first FDA-approved diagnostic PET scan for Alzheimer's, and PrecivityAD, the first blood test to aid in Alzheimer's diagnosis. The ADDF also facilitates knowledge sharing by organizing scientific conferences and convening key thought leaders in the field.

In recent leadership news, Isobel Coleman was appointed Chief Executive Officer, effective March 23, 2026. Co-founder Dr. Howard Fillit transitioned to an Emeritus role in June 2026, with a search underway for a new Chief Science Officer. The ADDF continues to be active in advancing research, as evidenced by a July 2026 partnership with The Michael J. Fox Foundation, a $5 million initiative to develop minimally invasive biomarkers for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. The organization remains uniquely positioned as the only charity solely focused on funding drug development for Alzheimer's, bridging critical funding gaps for high-risk, novel research.