The National Institute for General Medical Sciences’ (NIGMS) Special Minority Initiatives develop and launch new research and research training programs, and other initiatives for minority scientists. These initiatives include the Bridges to the Future programs (Bridges to the Baccalaureate Program and Bridges to the Doctorate Program), which are co-sponsored by the National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities (another component of the National Institutes of Health). The division is also responsible for organizing meetings and other activities that build networks among individuals and educational institutions to promote minority participation in sponsored research.