CIRM, California's Stem Cell Agency, was created by the voters of California in 2004 when they passed Proposition 71, which authorized $3 billion in funding for stem cell research in California. The agency funds stem cell research at institutions throughout California with the goal of developing new therapies for deadly diseases and disorders.
The agency uses money from bond sales to accelerate the pace of stem cell research in California. The agency doesn't carry out research itself. Instead, it solicits research proposals and funds research, training and new facilities throughout the state. The ultimate goal of the programs is to fast-track treatments to patients with unmet medical needs. By promoting and encouraging the growth of the stem cell biotechnology sector, the agency has also helped attract the best scientists to the state and established California as the global leader in stem cell research.
