Richard Hartford Foundation
The Richard Hartford Foundation, established by affluent capitalist Richard Hartford, is well renown for pioneering advancements in fields of genetics and biotechnology. The Foundation’s reputation is anchored in its groundbreaking research and transformative discoveries, particularly on the vibrant yet precarious planet of Sera.
Despite its acclaim, the Foundation has come under investigation on accusations of disregard for the safety of its personnel, misleading regulators, and performing unlawful experimentation.
Early Days
The Foundation was born out of Richard Hartford’s enthusiasm for spectacle and innovation. Inspired by the power of biological engineering, Hartford used his investment earnings to gather leading experts from across the region and constructed cutting-edge laboratories and industrial facilities. Prior to his involvement on Sera, Hartford invested his time and money into numerous scientific endeavors, including a multi-year sprint consulting for the Eclipse Program, before turning to more lucrative ventures. Over the years, Hartford’s vision and perseverance propelled the Foundation to the forefront of biotechnology.
Development of Sera
When initial surveys of the planet Sera reached the desk of Richard Hartford, he recognized an unparalleled opportunity for profit and wonder. Hartford acted swiftly, leveraging his position to place himself among key scientists and regulators deliberating future exploration of the planet. Though convincing the board proved difficult, Hartford was granted approval to conduct limited research operations on the planet, provided the Foundation abide strict regulations and openly publish its discoveries.
Within a year, the Foundation had broken ground on its first facility—a modest office, laboratory, and field camp nestled in the northern forests and supported by a handful of trailers and expedition vehicles. However, within only months the operation was already encountering troubles: unpredictable weather, dangerous wildlife, and structural degradation made research risky and slow. Following a number of inopportune and unfortunate episodes—and much to Hartford’s protest—the facility was abandoned.
Hartford remained confident in his vision and assembled a new team of industry experts to develop a more resilient, state-of-the-art research facility. Sparing no expense, the construction of four new campuses was completed within three years, and funding was pouring in. Researchers were reporting discoveries daily and laboratory results were promising—the facilities had become a showcase for donors and industry leaders, offering tours and expeditions to all who could afford them.
Despite the occasional hiccup, the Foundation continued to thrive… until a passing storm kicked off a chain of events that pushed the facility’s teetering infrastructure into total collapse; this would later be referred to as the Sera Incident.