Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced $60 million in awards through the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Florida Cancer Innovation Fund and opened the application cycle for Fiscal Year 2026-27, with $70 million available for new awards, a $10 million increase over last year.
"Today, I was proud to announce the winners of this year's Florida Cancer Innovation Fund awards and the opening of applications for next year's awards. This promising initiative now has $70 million in funding for groundbreaking cancer research projects, $10 million more than the previous cycle," said Governor DeSantis. "Congratulations to the awardees, and thank you for all you do to make Florida a beacon of hope in cancer research and treatment."
Since 2019, Florida has invested more than $1.4 billion in cancer research and treatment, and funding for cancer research programs has increased by more than 175 percent under Governor DeSantis. In Fiscal Year 2026-27 alone, Florida committed nearly $228 million to cancer research and innovation.
"Governor DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis have shown tremendous leadership in making cancer research a priority in Florida, and I'm incredibly grateful for their continued commitment," said State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo. "These investments give researchers the freedom to ask important questions, explore new ideas, and follow the evidence wherever it leads."
The Florida Cancer Innovation Fund was established in 2023 with an initial investment of $20 million to support Florida-based researchers, institutions, startups and other entities pursuing innovative approaches to cancer prevention, treatment and cures.
"Governor DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis had a bold vision for what Florida could accomplish in the fight against cancer, and nearly 150 funded projects later, that vision is paying off for families in every part of our state," said Agency for Health Care Administration Secretary Shevaun L. Harris. "From rural communities to major cancer centers, Florida patients are getting access to groundbreaking research and life-changing care close to home. This is what happens when a state decides cancer research is not optional. It is a priority."
Following a rigorous and competitive review process, $60 million was awarded through the Fiscal Year 2025-26 application cycle to researchers and institutions advancing the next generation of cancer prevention and treatment strategies. The awards support a diverse group of grantees across Florida, from established research institutions to emerging innovators pursuing promising new approaches in the fight against cancer.
The Fiscal Year 2026-27 application cycle is now open, with $70 million available for new awards, representing a $10 million increase over last year. Funding will continue to support innovative research in areas including preventive nutrition, emerging medical treatments, data infrastructure and patient-centered solutions designed to improve outcomes.
The Florida Cancer Innovation Fund is part of the state's broader commitment to advancing cancer research and collaboration. Through the Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program, Cancer Connect Collaborative and other targeted investments, Florida is working to break down barriers between researchers and institutions and accelerate the development of new treatments.
Cancer remains the second leading cause of death in Florida, and nearly 40 percent of Floridians will face a cancer diagnosis during their lifetime. Florida's continued investments are designed to ensure researchers have the resources to pursue breakthroughs while giving patients and families greater access to innovative treatments and hope for the future.
A full list of the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Florida Cancer Innovation Fund awardees, as well as information on how to apply for Fiscal Year 2026-27 funding, can be found here .
