HomeAbout BrightFocus Foundation

About BrightFocus Foundation

At BrightFocus, we support research to end Alzheimer's disease, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. We are a nonprofit organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of the United States, and are working to save mind and sight.

Take a moment to watch our video: "Cure in Mind. Cure in Sight."

Our History

We were founded in 1973 and known until Feb. 1, 2013 as the American Health Assistance Foundation (AHAF).

Our Vision

A world free from diseases of mind and sight.

Our Mission

BrightFocus funds exceptional scientific research worldwide to defeat Alzheimer’s disease, macular degeneration, and glaucoma and provides expert information on these heartbreaking diseases.

More in this Section

  • Programs

    BrightFocus’s goal is to support research programs to help eradicate brain and eye diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, macular degeneration, and glaucoma.

  • Partners

    We look for opportunities to partner with companies who share our values and our commitment to finding treatments and cures for brain and eye diseases. Find out how your company can support BrightFocus' programs.

  • Leadership

    BrightFocus Foundation is led by a board of directors, president/CEO, and four vice presidents. Learn more about the leaders who are working in the fight to save mind and sight.

  • Accountability

    We share information about our financials so you can be confident in your investment to BrightFocus. Learn more about our accountability through our financial statements, IRS form 990s, and annual reports.

  • Careers

    Search for current job openings and descriptions; apply to start your career at BrightFocus Foundation.

  • Video

    Our Story

    BrightFocus funds exceptional scientific research worldwide to defeat Alzheimer’s disease, macular degeneration, and glaucoma and provides expert information on these heartbreaking diseases.

  • Annual Reports

    We publish an annual report with information on the research we fund, our outreach efforts, our donors, and a summary of our financial position. Learn more about the achievements for the year.

Share this:

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email
Print this page
Don't miss out.
Receive research updates, inspiring stories, and expert advice
Please enter your first name.
Please enter your last name.
Keep me informed about: *
Please select at least one.
You must select at least one disease category.

Join us in the fight to end brain and eye disease

  • 1 in 16 Americans over age 40 has either Alzheimer's, macular degeneration, or glaucoma.

  • BrightFocus has funded more than $206 million in groundbreaking research to eradicate brain and eye disease. 

  • BrightFocus makes innovative science possible around the world—1,532 research projects involving more than 5056 scientists in 24 countries.

  • You can make a difference. 
    Support BrightFocus-funded research to end brain and eye diseases in our lifetime.

    Give Now

Is this a new diagnosis?

The first few weeks after a diagnosis can be overwhelming, and leave you with many questions and concerns.

If you are managing a new diagnosis, we have a Getting Started Guide that will help you understand and manage your disease.

Yes, go to the Getting Started Guide
No, return to the Toolkit