American College of Cardiology Foundation

American College of Cardiology Foundation

The American College of Cardiology Foundation was established in 1949 as the philanthropic vehicle of the ACC, a Washington, D.C.-based professional society. Under CEO Cathleen C. Gates, the foundation directs capital toward cardiovascular research, education, and quality-improvement initiatives. Its headquarters at Heart House on N Street NW also serves as the operational base for the parent ACC, though the foundation's assets are governed separately for charitable purposes. Grant-making concentrates on clinical research fellowships, health equity programs, and the dissemination of clinical guidelines. Confirmed partnerships include research fellowship awards with Merck & Co. and health equity initiatives with the Association of Black Cardiologists. The foundation's portfolio also supports the JACC Journals and the National Cardiovascular Data Registry, which collects clinical data from hospitals nationwide. Geographic focus spans the United States, with some guidelines adopted internationally. Total endowment assets are estimated at $184M (Altss estimate). The foundation maintains Heart House, a commercial property at 2400 N St NW, and an interest in MedAxiom, a cardiovascular consulting subsidiary based in Neptune Beach, Florida. In the 2024-2025 term, Cathleen Biga assumed the ACC presidency — the first non-physician to hold the role — signaling a governance evolution that may influence foundation priorities. Structurally, the ACCF operates as the 501(c)(3) arm of a 501(c)(6) trade association. This dual structure separates member lobbying and advocacy from tax-deductible charitable giving. The foundation participates in the Council of Medical Specialty Societies and the National Quality Forum, placing it at the center of standard-setting for cardiovascular care metrics.