Lever Lab is a mission-driven philanthropic initiative focused on identifying and advancing early-stage solutions with the potential to create meaningful, measurable impact. We operate more like early-stage investors than traditional donors—deeply engaged, outcomes-focused, and unafraid to take risks on bold ideas.
Our Philosophy
We believe:
The status quo rewards safety, not progress. Many of the most promising ideas in science and health remain underfunded because they are too early, too unconventional, or too difficult to measure using traditional metrics.
Philanthropy should act as risk capital. We aim to unlock opportunities where our support can catalyze progress that would otherwise stall—especially in areas where public or institutional funding falls short.
Results matter. We care deeply about the outcomes of the work we support and prefer transparent, collaborative relationships where shared learning and accountability are possible.
How We Engage
We don’t make gifts based on naming opportunities or traditional giving cycles. Instead, we look for:
Early-stage innovation: Projects with transformative potential, even if they’re pre-proof-of-concept.
Clear pathways to impact: Initiatives that are grounded in sound science and driven by teams with a vision for real-world change.
Philanthropy-as-leverage: Situations where our involvement can accelerate, unblock, or elevate important work.
Trusted relationships: We value openness, mutual respect, and the opportunity to engage as thought partners—not just funders.
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking:
Exploratory conversations, not polished proposals.
Gaps where flexible, risk-tolerant funding could unlock meaningful progress.
Leaders and labs who are open to collaboration and outcomes-focused partnership.
If there’s work in your orbit that fits this spirit, we’d love to learn more.