$128 million latest gift from philanthropists Steve and Sally Morgan supports six research projects on novel insulins at major US universities, including Indiana, Stanford, Wayne State, and the University of Notre Dame, elevating their giving to more than $385 million

In a landmark move that combines bold philanthropy with heartfelt impact, philanthropist Steve Morgan has pledged $128 million over the next five years, significantly accelerating the global effort to cure type 1 diabetes and enhancing efforts to address social disadvantage in underserved regions.

Part of this funding supports six research projects on novel insulins, with several of these projects conducted at major US universities, including Indiana University, Stanford University, Wayne State University, and the University of Notre Dame.

These projects aim to develop next-generation insulins, such as glucose-responsive “smart” insulins and ultrafast-acting insulins, and are part of a global effort involving institutions in the US, Australia, and China.

In summary, Steve Morgan’s philanthropy is directly supporting diabetes research at leading US institutions as part of a global initiative to find new treatments and a cure for type 1 diabetes

The announcement, made recently as the foundation approaches its 25th anniversary, builds on Morgan’s earlier $64 million gift in 2022—the largest private donation ever made to type 1 diabetes research in UK history.

Founder Steve Morgan CBE reaffirms his dedication to a mission that is both personally significant and critically essential.

“We’re in a moment where communities are hurting—from poverty, from lack of opportunity, from chronic diseases like type 1 diabetes that alter lives forever,” said Morgan. “We can’t wait for change. We have to drive it.”

At the heart of the initiative is the Type 1 Diabetes Grand Challenge, a groundbreaking collaboration with Diabetes UK and Breakthrough T1D.

The initiative now funds 19 ambitious research programs at 47 institutions and supports the work of 161 scientists working to find better treatments—and ultimately a cure—for the disease. The new funds will be distributed at a rate of $25.6 million per year through 2030.

Among the scientific frontiers being accelerated are beta cell replacement therapy using lab-grown insulin-producing cells, next-generation immunotherapies designed to halt the body’s autoimmune destruction of those same cells, and a collaborative model that puts patients at the center of the research process to ensure the outcomes truly transform lives.

“It’s inspiring to see research in motion, researchers and patients working side-by-side, all moving us closer to transformative therapies,” said Sally Morgan, Foundation trustee and advocate for families affected by type 1 diabetes.

But the foundation’s impact extends far beyond medical labs. The new pledge also amplifies efforts to address poverty, unemployment, and a lack of access to essential services across regions such as Merseyside, North Wales, West Cheshire, and North Shropshire.

The goal: to create real opportunities and long-term change in communities that have been too often overlooked.

“This isn’t just about writing checks,” Morgan said. “It’s about changing lives—in labs, in classrooms, in everyday homes where people need a real chance.”

Since its founding in 2001, the Steve Morgan Foundation has committed more than $384 million to charitable causes, consistently focusing on work that combines strategic investment with tangible outcomes.

Steve Morgan’s wealth primarily stems from founding and leading Redrow plc, a major UK homebuilder now valued at over £ 2.72 billion. He also invests in property and other sectors through the Bridgemere Group.

This latest $128 million new commitment reflects a turning point—not just for his foundation, but for philanthropy at large.

“We’ve done a lot in 25 years,” Morgan said. “But now it’s time to go even further. This is the next chapter—and it starts with action.”

The Steve Morgan Foundation is not just funding research or programs.

It is redefining what meaningful giving can look like in the modern world—bold, urgent, and human.

And with $128 million now committed to healing and hope, its next act promises to be its most powerful yet.