In Tallahassee, Governor Ron DeSantis used his weekly news conference to highlight Florida’s growing role in cancer research. He announced $60 million in awards from the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, earmarked for local researchers, startups, and institutions working on prevention, treatment and potential cures.
New $70 million grant cycle for 2026‑27
Alongside the awards, DeSantis opened the application window for the next fiscal year, adding $10 million to the previous cycle. The $70 million pool will support projects ranging from preventive nutrition and clinical therapies to data infrastructure and patient‑care improvements. State officials say the competitive process will continue to prioritize Florida‑based teams, ensuring that breakthroughs stay close to home for Floridians.
“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. “This promising initiative now has $70 million in funding for groundbreaking cancer research projects, $10 million more than the previous cycle. Congratulations to the awardees, and thank you for all you do to make Florida a beacon of hope in cancer research and treatment.”
Since the program’s launch in 2023 with an initial $20 million investment, the state has backed roughly 150 projects. State health data shows Florida has directed more than $1.4 billion toward cancer research and care since 2019—an increase of over 175 percent under the current administration. For the 2026‑27 fiscal year, nearly $228 million has been allocated across the state’s various cancer initiatives.
Leadership and impact
State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo praised the flexibility the funds provide. “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,” Ladapo said. “These investments give researchers the freedom to ask important questions, explore new ideas, and follow the evidence wherever it leads.”
Agency for Health Care Administration Secretary Shevaun L. Harris added, “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.”
Cancer remains the second leading cause of death in Florida, with about 40 percent of residents expected to receive a diagnosis in their lifetime. By keeping funding decisions within the state, officials argue Floridians benefit directly from new treatments, faster clinical trials, and improved patient outcomes.
What’s next for applicants
Researchers interested in the $70 million pool must submit proposals during the 2026‑27 application window, which is now open. The state is seeking innovative approaches that can translate quickly into clinical practice, emphasizing projects that improve preventive nutrition, develop novel clinical therapies, strengthen data systems, and enhance patient‑care pathways.
With the expanded budget, Florida aims to maintain its momentum as a national hub for cancer innovation, positioning the Sunshine State as a model for how state‑level investment can accelerate medical breakthroughs that save lives.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
