An open letter to AZ Governor Katie Hobbs, Senator Mark Kelly, Senator Rueben Gallego and Representative David Schweikert and all other esteemed leaders in Arizona.

If not us, who? If not now, when?

Arizona is primed to be a leader in the med and biotechnology industry and could achieve a significant leadership position in the world of cancer innovation. This provides opportunity for maximum use of existing infrastructure, promise and opportunity for planned infrastructure and a space that attracts the world’s talent in our community. Acting now will take some time, but by improving the existing models from their current baseline and leveraging the existing talent and expertise already available in the state, we would create significant momentum to achieve the proposed program goals. Your support, guidance and expertise is necessary to make this happen and I hope you and your teams will engage in the existing dialogue during this inflection point in time

The recent Senate approval of H.R.1 One Big Beautiful Bill Act (I still can’t believe that’s the official name) has made it clear that the federal government does not respect the decades of effort and effectiveness demonstrated by the National Institute of Health and the National Cancer Institute; programs that are the envy of the world. These programs are rarely replicated when it comes to their effectiveness. These programs are now at risk of stalling, becoming less effective and failing. This is a difficult position to understand since these institutes have consistently doubled return on investments in the form of:

1. Program Project Grants: Support large-scale research programs that involve multiple projects, often focusing on a common goal in cancer research.

2. Center Grants: NIH and NCI provide comprehensive cancer center grants that support established cancer centers conducting multidisciplinary research.

3. Training Grants: Provide funding for institutional training programs aimed at preparing the next generation of researchers in specific areas of cancer research.

4. Fellowships: Support individual researchers at various career stages, including predoctoral and postdoctoral fellows.

5. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR): Funding for small businesses driving innovative research and development that has the potential for commercialization.

6. Contracts: NIH and NCI may also fund research through contracts for specific projects or services that align with their mission.

7. Collaborative and Cooperative Agreements: These agreements facilitate partnerships between NIH/NCI and researchers or institutions, focusing on shared goals and resources.

The impact to existing and promising research as discussed by many leaders in this industry is palpably negative. The impacts, should this position continue, will be felt for many decades to come as skilled resources seek other opportunities outside of the U.S., turn their efforts to less worthy causes (saving lives is pretty worthy), and increase the dominance in this field outside of the U.S.

A different, but proven approach 

I propose a different approach, based on proven models and methodologies that will benefit from the burgeoning med and biotech industry in Phoenix, Tucson and throughout Arizona. It is time to take this nascent ecosystem, and breathe life and resources into it so that there is direction, growth and sustainable activity to solve real health issues. The existing foundation of companies, foundations, research institutes and reputable hospitals may benefit from a more collaborative approach at the state level vs. relying on an unpredictable federal level of support. 

Overall, while Arizona may not rank among the wealthiest states, it does have a strong and growing economy, with wealth indicators generally aligned with the national averages. As reported across many public news stories,

Let’s start with private capital.

“Arizona has seen a significant increase in its millionaire population, particularly in the city of Scottsdale, which has experienced a 125% increase in millionaires between 2014 and 2024, according to recent reports. This growth has made Scottsdale the fastest-growing wealth hub in the U.S. based on the millionaire population.”

There is a significant amount of private capital in Arizona. These dollars are looking for opportunities in myriad ways. I feel we should be reviewing Federal and State investment laws to ensure the unobstructed flow of capital into these opportunities and particularly into health and well-being opportunities. There are a significant amount of breakthroughs stuck in research and development because of restrictions placed on the average household. Venture capital and other investment laws require review with a new goal in mind. 

Investments in healthcare and biotech may be subject to regulations by state health departments or federal agencies, particularly concerning compliance and licensing. These should be reviewed to ensure the marketplace of ideas and innovation is enabled to thrive.

We are blessed with a robust med/tech foundation in AZ

Please note the following institutions that could benefit from as well as support this program. Arizona's med and biotech communities consist of several key components, companies, and foundations, including but not limited to:

1. Research Institutions:

• Arizona State University (ASU)

• University of Arizona (UA)

• Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) / City of Hope

2. Notable Companies:

• Medtronic

• Biodesix

• AxoGen

• W.L. Gore & Associates

• Roche Tissue Diagnostics

• Ibis Medical

3. Biotechnology Startups:

• Sensei Ag

• BioVariate

• Aextra

• Woven Medical

4. Industry Associations:

• Arizona Bioindustry Association (AZBio)

• BioTech Arizona

5. Health Systems and Hospitals:

• Banner Health

• Dignity Health

• Mayo Clinic Arizona

6. Foundations and Funds:

• Arizona Biomedical Research Commission (ABRC)

• Flinn Foundation

• Arizona Innovation Challenge

7. Incubators and Accelerators:

• BioAccel

• Venture Madness

This is not yet a comprehensive list, however key stakeholders are hopefully included here. These components collectively contribute to the growth and innovation of the medical and biotechnology sectors in Arizona, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and healthcare systems.

The Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) 

The CPRIT program has publicly shared several benefits of their program, including:

Increased Funding for Cancer Research: 

CPRIT has provided substantial grants to support innovative cancer research, leading to advancements in understanding and treating various types of cancer.

Job Creation: 

The program has stimulated the Texas economy by creating jobs in research institutions, healthcare facilities, and biotechnology companies.

Development of New Therapies: 

CPRIT funding has facilitated the development of new cancer therapies and improved treatment protocols, enhancing patient care.

Access to Cancer Prevention Programs:

 The initiative has expanded access to cancer prevention and awareness programs, particularly in underserved communities, leading to increased screenings and early detection.

Collaboration Among Research Institutions: 

CPRIT has fostered collaboration between universities, hospitals, and research organizations, enhancing research capabilities and streamlining efforts to tackle cancer.

Education and Training: 

The program has supported educational opportunities and training for new researchers, helping to build a strong workforce in cancer research and treatment.

These benefits highlight CPRIT’s role in enhancing cancer research and prevention efforts throughout Texas. I am proposing the following roadmap / initial plan to determine if it is appropriate and how to execute on developing this program in AZ. 

CPRIT Program for AZ:

I have outlined the following framework and action plan to develop a model of the CPRIT (Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas) program for Arizona modeled after the National Cancer Institute (NCI), :

Model Framework for Cancer Research and Prevention in Phoenix, AZ

1. Mission and Vision

Mission: 

To reduce the burden of cancer in Arizona through innovative research, prevention, and education initiatives.

Vision: 

To transform Arizona into a global leader in cancer research and prevention, advancing knowledge and improving outcomes for cancer patients worldwide.

2. Core Components

1. Research Funding: Provide grants to support innovative cancer research projects, focusing on both basic and applied cancer investigations.

2. Prevention Programs: Develop community-based prevention initiatives tailored to the specific needs of the local population, including outreach and education on cancer risks and screenings.

3. Collaboration: Foster partnerships with local universities, hospitals, and research institutions to leverage resources, expertise, and data.

4. Public Awareness Campaigns: Implement statewide campaigns to increase awareness about cancer prevention, treatment options, and support services.

3. Program Areas

Basic Research: Fund studies that explore cancer biology, genetics, and the environment's role in cancer.

1. Translational Research: 

Support projects aimed at translating scientific discoveries into clinical applications and therapies.

2. Clinical Trials: 

Promote and facilitate access to clinical trials for patients, ensuring participation in cutting-edge research.

3. Community Health Initiatives: 

Target high-risk populations with tailored education and screening programs to increase early detection and prevention efforts.

4. Governance and Structure

1. Establish a governing board comprising cancer researchers, healthcare professionals, community leaders, and survivors to guide program priorities and funding decisions.

2. Create advisory committees focused on specific areas such as prevention, research, and community outreach.

Action Plan for Implementation

Phase 1: Planning and Development (0-12 Months)

• Conduct a Needs Assessment: Collaborate with local health departments and cancer organizations to identify specific cancer-related needs and gaps in services within Phoenix.

• Engage Stakeholders: Host forums and workshops to involve community members, healthcare providers, and researchers in program development.

• Develop Funding Strategies: Identify potential funding sources, including state grants, federal resources, and private donations.

Phase 2: Program Launch (12-24 Months)

1. Initiate Grant Programs: Begin accepting applications for research funding, focusing on innovative projects that align with community needs.

2. Launch Prevention Campaigns: Roll out public health campaigns that promote cancer screening and healthy lifestyle choices.

3. Establish Collaborations: Partner with local universities and hospitals to create joint research initiatives and clinical trial networks.

Phase 3: Evaluation and Expansion (24-36 Months)

1. Monitor and Evaluate Programs: Implement metrics to assess the effectiveness of research projects and prevention initiatives.

2. Adjust Strategies Based on Data: Use evaluation results to refine current programs and develop new initiatives to meet emerging needs.

3. Expand Outreach Efforts: Increase awareness and participation in programs, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all communities.

Conclusion

The need to review opportunities to allow private capital to flow from all individuals associated with this great state need to be reviewed to ensure capitalism works and progress is made in the world of cancer innovation and biotech research. Arizona is primed to be a leader in this battle. 

We also need to review the opportunities of providing and fostering a robust med and bio tech ecosystem quietly growing in this state.

Though I won’t claim that this plan is fully comprehensive, I feel it requires serious review and the resources to make it so. This model, tailored for Arizona, emphasizes research, prevention, and community engagement, echoing the successful components of the CPRIT program in Texas and the National Cancer Institute. 

Through collaborative efforts and focused initiatives, this program aims to significantly impact cancer prevention and research in Arizona.

I am not claiming to have all of the answers, but I feel we should start asking the right questions and ensure the health and welfare of this wonderful and productive state are not left in the hands of those who have proven unpredictable. I look forward to your response.