Anthony Talcott, Digital Journalist
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Anthony Talcott, Digital Journalist
ORLANDO, Fla. – Florida is awarding $60 million to support cancer research and innovation while opening applications for another $70 million in funding, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Wednesday.
The awards come through the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, which supports Florida-based researchers, institutions, startups and other organizations working on cancer prevention, treatment and cures. The new application cycle includes a $10 million increase over the previous year.
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“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,” DeSantis said in a statement.
The program was created in 2023 with an initial $20 million investment. State officials said nearly 150 projects have since received funding.
The latest awards followed a competitive review process and will support projects ranging from preventive nutrition and emerging medical treatments to data infrastructure and patient-focused care.
Florida has invested more than $1.4 billion in cancer research and treatment since 2019, according to the governor’s office. The state committed nearly $228 million to cancer research and innovation during the 2026-27 fiscal year.
State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo said the funding gives researchers flexibility to explore new ideas and follow scientific evidence.
Cancer is the second-leading cause of death in Florida, and nearly 40% of Floridians will face a cancer diagnosis during their lifetime, according to the governor’s office.
The Florida Cancer Innovation Fund is part of a broader state effort that includes the Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program and the Cancer Connect Collaborative. Officials say those initiatives are intended to improve cooperation among researchers and institutions and speed the development of new treatments.
Applications for the 2026-27 funding cycle are now open. A complete list of the latest award recipients and application information is available through the Florida governor’s office.
Copyright 2026 by WKMG ClickOrlando – All rights reserved.
Anthony, a graduate of the University of Florida, joined ClickOrlando.com in April 2022.
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