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by Fox 49 Staff
ORLANDO, Fla. — Florida is putting tens of millions more toward cancer research, with Gov. Ron DeSantis announcing $60 million in awards through the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Florida Cancer Innovation Fund and opening the application cycle for Fiscal Year 2026-27.
“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,” DeSantis said. “Congratulations to the awardees, and thank you for all you do to make Florida a beacon of hope in cancer research and treatment.”
The Fiscal Year 2026-27 application cycle includes $70 million available for new awards, a $10 million increase over last year.
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 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.”
State officials said the $60 million awarded through the Fiscal Year 2025-26 cycle followed a “rigorous and competitive review process” and will go to researchers and institutions working on the next generation of cancer prevention and treatment strategies. The awards are intended to support grantees across Florida, including established research institutions and emerging innovators.
Officials said the new Fiscal Year 2026-27 funding will continue to support research areas including preventive nutrition, emerging medical treatments, data infrastructure and patient-centered solutions designed to improve outcomes. The fund is part of broader state efforts that include the Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program and the Cancer Connect Collaborative, aimed at increasing collaboration and accelerating 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, according to the information released with the announcement.
A full list of the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Florida Cancer Innovation Fund awardees and information on how to apply for Fiscal Year 2026-27 funding
2026 Sinclair, Inc.
DeSantis announces $60M in Florida Cancer Innovation Fund awards, opens $70M round – wtwcfox
