AstraZeneca has awarded $3.4 million to nonprofit organizations across the United States through its Accelerate Change Together (ACT) on Health Equity initiative, funding programs that address social, cultural, and linguistic barriers that limit access to care and opportunity.
Now in its fifth year, the company said the initiative will support 47 nonprofit programs focused on advancing health equity, with efforts spanning healthcare access, nutrition, lung health, and work intended to reduce barriers associated with higher rates of preventable conditions.
The latest round of contributions brings AstraZeneca’s total ACT on Health Equity support to more than $18 million to date, the company said.
As part of the 2025 Community Solutions Challenge, AstraZeneca said it awarded grants to 37 nonprofit organizations nationwide. Each recipient will receive $30,000, for a total of $1.11 million. The company said these grants will support regional and community-based programs addressing issues such as food insecurity, nutrition education, access to care, and lung health for people affected by asthma, COPD, and lung cancer.
Separately, AstraZeneca said its 2025 National Strategic Collaborations program awarded $2.3 million to 10 organizations for initiatives aligned with areas of expertise, including lung disease, lung and breast cancer, and cardiology. The company said the funded programs are working to eliminate barriers that can contribute to higher incidence of preventable conditions or that can keep underserved populations from receiving standard care and support.
AstraZeneca framed ACT on Health Equity as part of its broader sustainability agenda, describing the initiative, launched in 2021, as an enterprise-wide effort informed by independent cross-sector experts and supported by a Health Equity Advisory Council of external community leaders, academics, healthcare professionals, nonprofit executives and AstraZeneca leaders.
KEY QUOTES:
“At AstraZeneca, we believe advancing health equity is fundamental to building a healthier society. Through our US ACT on Health Equity initiative, we’re working to break down barriers to care. The Community Solutions Challenge and National Strategic Collaborations grant programs are powerful examples of this commitment in action, providing funding to organizations making a meaningful difference in their local communities. In partnership with our awardees, we’re helping to create a future where every community has the chance to thrive.”
Mohit Manrao, SVP, Head Of US Oncology And President, AstraZeneca Foundation
“For too many adults living with chronic conditions, mobility limitations, or disabilities, traditional fitness spaces are not designed with them in mind, creating real barriers to health and well-being. Our Adaptive Fitness Program exists to close that gap by offering inclusive programs, specialized equipment, and trained staff who understand how to support every individual safely and effectively. From adaptive swim and Parkinson’s-specific boxing to cancer survivorship and functional electrical stimulation cycling, we are meeting people where they are and helping them build confidence, strength, and connection. This work is about more than exercise. It is about dignity, access, and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to live a healthier life.”
Karen Santilli, CEO, Greater Providence YMCA And 2025 Community Solutions Challenge Recipient
