GeneSprout Launches The Genetic Access Initiative to Expand Access to Whole Genome Sequencing for Children
GeneSprout and Global Genes announce a new collaboration ahead of Rare Disease Day to expand access to whole genome sequencing for children facing financial barriers.
For immediate release
Initiative announced ahead of Rare Disease Day February 28, 2026 to help raise awareness for families living with rare disease
BOSTON, MA and WASHINGTON D.C. — February 26, 2026 — GeneSprout, a pediatric genetics and rare disease navigation company, and Global Genes, a leading rare disease nonprofit, announced a new collaboration today to create the Genetic Access Initiative, a fundraising and genetic screening program designed to expand access to whole genome sequencing for children under age 18 years who experience barriers due to costs. Timed with Rare Disease Day, the Genetic Access Initiative aims to reduce barriers that keep families from obtaining answers.
Why this matters
For many families, the path to a diagnosis can take years. Without access to genetic screening, children miss opportunity for action or may cycle through repeated doctor visits, unnecessary tests and delayed interventions. Whole genome sequencing can help uncover underlying genetic risks, supporting better care planning.
What the Genetic Access Initiative provides
- Acceptance of restricted, tax-deductible donations dedicated to the Genetic Access Initiative
- Access to whole genome sequencing for eligible children under age 18 years
- Access to GeneSprout rare disease support services
“GeneSprout’s mission is to make genetic sequencing accessible to all children, enabling earlier diagnoses and more timely treatments and interventions. Yet, as with many innovative medical advances, cost remains a significant barrier for too many families. The Genetic Access Initiative addresses this challenge by breaking down financial barriers and expanding access to genetic sequencing for families who might otherwise be unable to afford it—advancing health equity and improving outcomes for children everywhere.”
— Ann Wu, MD, MPH, Chief Executive Officer, GeneSprout
“We are excited that GeneSprout is providing another resource to make genetic testing more available to families who need it. By expanding access to whole genome sequencing, GeneSprout is providing another pathway to move the rare disease community.”
— Karmen Trzupek, Senior Director of Scientific Programs, Global Genes
How to support the Genetic Access Initiative
Pharmaceutical companies interested in donating as part of a giving and health equity program can support the initiative via the Global Genes donation link on GeneSprout’s website: https://genesprout.com/genetic-access-initiative
Individual donors can also support the initiative via GeneSprout’s website: https://genesprout.com/genetic-access-initiative
About GeneSprout
GeneSprout helps parents and caregivers do everything in their power to safeguard the health of their children by screening children for actionable genetic risks and providing families with rare disease counseling and support. GeneSprout was founded by Dr. Ann Wu, MD MPH, a parent of two children, board-certified pediatrician and a former Harvard genetics researcher. GeneSprout is dedicated to delivering the best preventive care possible through access to pediatric genetic screening.
About Global Genes
Global Genes is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating the burdens and challenges of rare diseases for patients, their families and disease communities globally. For nearly two decades, we’ve equipped rare disease patients and advocates with tools, training and support — to connect patients with needed resources, activate communities and advance research. Global Genes serves the more than 400 million people around the globe, and the nearly one in 10 Americans affected by rare diseases. With over 800 patient advocacy group members in our Global Advocacy Alliance, we work with patient advocates, industry partners and academia to build vital ecosystems to progress critical work in rare disease. Learn more at http://www.globalgenes.org.
Media contacts
For media inquiries, please contact:
- GeneSprout: hello@genesprout.com
- Global Genes: careaboutrare@globalgenes.org
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have concerns about your child’s health, speak with your pediatrician.