I am LaToya Hinton-Howery, the CEO and Research Director of Next Innovative Clinical Research. Our clinical research facility conducts clinical trials provided by pharmaceutical companies. Our role is to bridge the gap between pharmaceutical companies, minority physicians, and underserved populations.

I started as an entry-level Clinical Research Coordinator. During this time, I gained a thorough understanding of how and why clinical trials are conducted. As the years progressed, I worked in the research department at the University of Chicago, Rush University, and several small research facilities. I learned a little more with each position
and began to piece together the knowledge I would need to open my clinical research site. 

The catalyst for starting Next Innovative Clinical Research was realizing a lack of clinical research sites, particularly in minority communities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the FDA mandated that pharmaceutical companies increase the inclusion of minority participants in clinical trials for drug approval. This highlighted the scarcity of research sites in Chicago, specifically in minority neighborhoods. I saw an opportunity to address this gap by opening a clinical research site on the south side of Chicago, bringing accessible clinical trial opportunities to underserved communities.

I can honestly say that I was never inspired to be a business owner. My goal was to be a great researcher and to conduct clinical trials. I did not think of it as running or owning a business. This process evolved from something that I was passionate about, which just happened to be a great business.

Because I was thrown into being a business owner and was not fully educated on the ins and outs, I learned a lot by trial and error and by participating and graduating from the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business program.

I can honestly say that I was never inspired to be a business owner. My goal was to be a great researcher and to conduct clinical trials. I did not think of it as running or owning a business. This process evolved from something that I was passionate about, which just happened to be a great business.

Because I was thrown into being a business owner and was not fully educated on the ins and outs, I learned a lot by trial and error and by participating and graduating from the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business program.

Next Innovative Clinical Research addresses the problem of limited access to clinical trials, particularly in minority and underserved communities. Statistics reveal that racial and ethnic minorities represent 39% of the US population but account for only 2% to 16% of clinical
trial participants. Our organization aims to bridge this gap by offering inclusive clinical trial participation opportunities. We strive to increase the representation of racial and ethnic minorities in clinical trials, allowing them to access cutting-edge treatments and therapies
while contributing to medical advancements.

Our impact on the community is threefold. Firstly, we provide clinical trial opportunities that were previously unavailable in underserved communities. Statistics show that racial and ethnic minorities comprise 39% of the United States population but only account for 2% to
16% of clinical trial participants. By offering these opportunities, we empower individuals to actively participate in advancing science and the creation of new medications. Secondly, we provide participants with free exams, labs, and potential treatments, addressing health disparities and providing valuable healthcare resources. Lastly, we create career opportunities within the community by offering internships and potential job placements, contributing to local economic growth.

One of the biggest challenges we face is the limited awareness among Bronzeville residents and surrounding Chicago communities about the accessibility and benefits of participating in a clinical trial. We desperately need marketing resources to be able to get the word out.

One potential challenge we face is the limited awareness among physicians about the accessibility and benefits of conducting clinical trials. Many doctors are unaware that they have the opportunity to engage in research and the potential positive impact it can have on their patients and their practice. Educating physicians and building awareness about the benefits of clinical trials will be crucial to our success.

We seek grant funding to support critical aspects of our operations, including research infrastructure, staffing, patient recruitment, community outreach initiatives, and participant support services. According to our financial analysis, the requested grant funds will allow us to establish and maintain a clinical research site in an underserved community, cover operational expenses, and implement targeted outreach strategies. Additionally, the grant will provide the financial stability necessary to conduct high-quality research, ensure participant safety and well-being, and drive meaningful change in healthcare outcomes for marginalized populations.

In addition to conducting clinical trials, we plan to implement programs focused on community health and education. These programs will provide health resources, education, and awareness campaigns to our community. By collaborating with local organizations and community outreach initiatives, we aim to enhance recruitment efforts and ensure diverse participation in clinical trials.

Our target market includes physicians and their practices in Houston, Texas, and the Bronzeville neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. Statistics highlight the need for our services in these communities. For instance, in Bronzeville, despite comprising 82% of the population, African Americans make up less than 5% of clinical trial participants. Our goal is to serve minority and underserved communities, ensuring they have equal access to clinical trial

opportunities and are well-represented in medical research. As we expand, we aim to reach more communities facing health disparities and limited research access.

Remember

"Amidst the pursuit of winning a grant, we recognize that things happen for a reason, and in the forefront of this journey stands God's providence. As we navigate the intricate process, we trust in His divine plan, knowing that every twist and turn, every setback and triumph, serves a purpose in shaping our path. With faith as our guide, we embrace the challenges, seize the opportunities, and persist in our endeavors, for we believe that God's hand will lead us towards the grant that aligns with His greater purpose for our mission. In His wisdom, He unfolds the intricate tapestry of our journey, unveiling the opportunities that will empower us to make a profound impact and fulfill our purpose in serving others."