ACRO
Pharmaceutical ManufacturingDistrict of Columbia, United States51-200 Employees
ACRO is a Washington, DC–based trade association that represents innovative clinical research and technology organizations, engaging with regulators to educate stakeholders and influence policies that support the safe and efficient conduct of clinical trials. Founded in 2002, the organization has worked to lift public understanding and confidence in clinical research, and its membership now includes technology partners alongside traditional CROs. The association positions itself as a leading voice on safe and ethical trials, collaborating with global stakeholders to explore new approaches to research and development and to promote a more innovative and efficient clinical trial landscape. Its policy focus encompasses expanding the use of decentralized trials and digital trial methods, risk-based quality management, diversity and inclusion, data sharing and privacy, real-world evidence, patient-centered drug development, safety and ethics in research, and regulatory and tax policies that support research and innovation. ACRO is described as a mid-sized organization based in Washington, DC, with a footprint across the pharmaceutical research ecosystem. A recent development is the appointment of Clay Alspach as Executive Director in January 2026.