Year-end giving campaign launches for the AAN Research Program

Support the urgent need for brain research funding

Highlights:

• To advance brain research, the American Academy of Neurology has launched its year-end giving campaign for the AAN Research Program.
• One hundred percent of every tax-deductible donation will directly support promising brain research.
• Brain research is essential to preventing, diagnosing, treating and ultimately curing diseases of the brain and nervous system, while also supporting healthy aging and brain health.
• Demand for research funding far exceeds available resources. The AAN invested nearly $1.8 million in 2026, while millions in viable neuroscience research went unfunded.
• With more than 44,000 neurologists and neuroscience professionals, the AAN has the scientific expertise to put donations to work effectively to improve brain health for all.

MINNEAPOLIS, Nov. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The need for brain research funding has never been more urgent. That is why the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) today announced its year-end giving campaign for the AAN Research Program, inviting people to support the researchers working to find new treatments and cures for brain diseases and disorders.

One hundred percent of every tax-deductible donation will go directly to brain research.

"Scientific breakthroughs begin with researchers who have the ideas and expertise to pursue important questions," said American Academy of Neurology President Natalia S. Rost, MD, MPH, FAAN, FAHA. "The AAN Research Program gives all of us the opportunity to help advance high-quality brain research, bringing hope to people affected by brain disease."

Brain research is what makes it possible to prevent, diagnose, treat, and eventually even cure conditions of the brain and nervous system. It also advances our understanding of memory, learning, sleep, mental health, and healthy aging, helping people live healthier lives. 

The AAN Research Program has funded brain research for more than 30 years, owing to its success the exceptional pool of talented researchers in the AAN community, the world's largest association of neurologists and neuroscience professionals.

Demand for funding, however, continues to outpace available resources. Hundreds of researchers apply for AAN grants. The AAN invested nearly $1.8 million in 2026, but millions in viable neuroscience research went unfunded.

"We know that excellent research proposals go unfunded," said American Academy of Neurology Chief Executive Officer Mary E. Post, MBA, CAE. "We want to make sure that we have the funding to support the research that may eventually lead to a cure for MS or a way to prevent Alzheimer's. Every contribution can help researchers pursue discoveries as they work toward improving brain health for all."

With neurologists leading the AAN Board of Directors, Science Committee, and Research Program Subcommittee, the AAN is guided by trusted experts who understand both the science and the real-world application of research.

Help advance research by making a tax-deductible gift on the BrainHealth.com "Donate to Research" page. Organizations interested in supporting the AAN Research Program may contact [email protected].

The AAN Research Program is administered through the American Academy of Neurology Institute, the Academy's 501(c)(3) charitable organization.

Discover more about brain health at BrainHealth.com, a free public resource from the American Academy of Neurology. It offers a website, podcast, and books, connecting you with trusted information from the world's leading experts in brain health. Follow BrainHealth.com on Facebook, X, and Instagram. 

The American Academy of Neurology is the leading voice in brain health. As the world's largest association of neurologists and neuroscience professionals with more than 44,000 members, the AAN provides access to the latest news, science and research affecting neurology for patients, caregivers, physicians and professionals alike. The AAN's mission is to enhance member career fulfillment and promote brain health for all. A neurologist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, care and treatment of brain, spinal cord and nervous system diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, stroke, concussion, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, headache and migraine.

Explore the latest in neurological disease and brain health, from the minds at the AAN at AAN.com or find us on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

SOURCE American Academy of Neurology