Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis announce a $60 million funding opportunity to advance innovative cancer research across Florida on World Cancer Research Day
Tampa, Florida – In a move aimed at strengthening Florida’s fight against cancer, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis visited the University of South Florida on World Cancer Research Day to announce the third-year funding opportunity of the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund. The program will make $60 million available to researchers and institutions across the state to support high-impact projects, with a particular focus on nutrition practices for cancer prevention and treatment.
“I was proud to announce that applications are opening this week for the next round of cancer research projects through the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund,” said Governor DeSantis during the symposium held at the USF Morsani College of Medicine. “These competitive grants are open to a wide range of institutions and researchers, with a focus on preventative nutrition as well as emerging medical treatment options for cancer patients. Investing in innovation today means saving lives tomorrow—and that’s why we will continue working to make Florida a beacon of hope in cancer research.”
The Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, part of the Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program, was established to accelerate breakthrough research, enhance treatment models, and remove barriers to life-saving medical advances. Since its inception, the fund has awarded $80 million to 95 researchers and institutions, making a significant impact on the state’s cancer research landscape. With this year’s $60 million allocation, the total investment through the Fund will reach $140 million.
“This year’s funding opportunity for the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund is strengthening our fight against cancer and supporting patients and their families across our state,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis. “This focus on nutrition research and preventative strategies directly aligns with the work of the Florida MAHA Commission and puts Florida at the forefront of discovering how what we eat can help beat disease.”
The Florida Cancer Innovation Fund has already shown its influence in a number of ways. Past grants have supported innovative monitoring technology for early disease detection, expanded clinical trials in rural areas, and advanced data-driven precision medicine platforms. Projects funded by the initiative have demonstrated Florida’s commitment to harnessing technology and scientific innovation to improve patient outcomes and establish new standards of care.
In its first year, the program funded 30 researchers with $20 million, a figure that tripled in its second year with $60 million allocated to 65 researchers. The focus has consistently been on funding projects that yield rapid results and measurable impacts for patients across the state.
“As we recognize World Cancer Research Day, Florida also celebrates the third year of continuing its commitment to cancer research, dedicating $60 million toward an approach which focuses on quick results and measurable outcomes for Florida’s patients,” said State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo. “Through the steadfast leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis, Florida has built a strong foundation for cancer research. The Cancer Innovation Fund represents Florida’s continuous dedication to advancing cutting-edge cancer research that will benefit Floridians and serve as a model for innovation nationwide.”
The announcement came during a symposium at USF that provided a platform for experts to explore innovative approaches to reducing cancer risk through nutrition and food regulation reform. Attendees had the opportunity to discuss the intersection of science, policy, and prevention, while recent Florida Cancer Innovation Fund projects were showcased, including studies on fasting, diet, and exercise interventions for cancer patients.
The new funding cycle prioritizes projects that deliver measurable outcomes within 12 months, serve rural or medically underserved populations, and employ translational research methods. In addition, initiatives focusing on nutrition, preventative strategies, and the repurposing of generic drugs such as ivermectin for cancer treatment are encouraged. Collaborative projects that bring together oncologists, researchers, and cancer treatment centers to break down traditional silos are also highly valued.
Applications for the funding opportunity are open to a broad range of institutions and multidisciplinary teams. Proposals will be evaluated based on scientific merit, innovation potential, collaborative strength, and the capacity to improve patient outcomes for all Floridians. Researchers and institutions interested in applying can access the Funding Opportunity Announcement and application materials on the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund page of the Department of Health website.
Governor and First Lady DeSantis emphasized that the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund represents more than just financial support. It is part of a broader effort to ensure that Florida remains a national leader in cancer research and innovation. By investing in cutting-edge science and prioritizing preventive strategies like nutrition, the Fund aims to accelerate progress and provide tangible benefits for patients statewide.
The initiative also highlights Florida’s historic investments in cancer resources, research, and treatment programs. By combining financial support with strategic guidance and community engagement, the state is working to ensure that breakthroughs in cancer research translate into real-world improvements in patient care and outcomes.
For researchers, the $60 million funding opportunity represents a chance to pursue high-impact projects that could shape the future of cancer prevention and treatment. By emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and practical results, the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund continues to position the state as a hub for groundbreaking cancer research.
With applications now open, Florida’s scientific and medical community has the opportunity to submit proposals that align with the Fund’s mission of transforming cancer care. As Governor DeSantis said, “Investing in innovation today means saving lives tomorrow,” underscoring the urgency and importance of these research efforts for Floridians and patients around the world.
