Rare Genomics Institute empowers patient communities to accelerate research by helping fund and create personalized research projects based on individuals with rare diseases. Their first initiative is to sequence the genomes of these patients. To do this, they provide three innovative services. First, a micro-funding website: an online fundraising platform and social network that helps patient communities raise funds. Second, a researcher network: access to top genomics researchers who are willing to sequence and analyze these patients. Third, a clinical network: connecting patients with clinicians and genetic counselors who will help interpret and translate the individualized research findings.