Bright Edge

BrightEdge Fund is the philanthropic impact investment arm of the American Cancer Society (ACS), established in 2019. Headquartered in Kennesaw, Georgia, BrightEdge focuses on accelerating the commercialization of innovations in cancer care. The fund aims to reduce cancer mortality, alleviate pain and suffering, and advance health equity by investing in for-profit, early-stage companies developing cancer-focused therapeutics, diagnostics, and technologies. Notable investments in BrightEdge’s portfolio include Checkmate Pharmaceuticals, an immunotherapy drug developer; Freenome, a biotech company specializing in early cancer detection through liquid biopsy; and TailorMed, which provides patient financial navigation software. The fund has also invested in Catena Biosciences and Clasp Therapeutics. BrightEdge has a strong track record of exits, with companies like Castle Biosciences going public and Tmunity being acquired. The fund leverages the ACS’s extensive research and expertise to mitigate risks associated with health science investments. This affiliation allows BrightEdge to provide valuable insights into the competitive landscape and regulatory environment, enhancing the potential for successful commercialization of its portfolio companies​. Managed by a team of experienced professionals, including Managing Director Alice Pomponio, BrightEdge also serves as a follow-on investor and board observer, working alongside prominent venture capital firms to support its mission. The fund’s current fundraising target is $100 million, aiming to sustain ACS’s life-saving programs and further its impact.