TAMPA, Fla. – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis visited the University of South Florida to attend the Department of Health’s World Cancer Research Day symposium to announce the third-year funding opportunity of the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, which will make $60 million available to fund high-impact research, with a focus on nutrition practices for cancer prevention or treatment. The Governor and First Lady also highlighted Florida’s historic investments in cancer resource and treatment initiatives.

“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 Ron DeSantis. “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.”

“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, established through the Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program, seeks to accelerate breakthrough research, enhance treatment models, and eliminate barriers to life-saving medical advances. Since its inception, the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund has provided $80 million to support 95 researchers and institutions across the state, demonstrating Florida’s commitment to cancer innovation. This year’s funding will bring the total investment to $140 million since the Fund began.

Florida Cancer Innovation Fund projects have already demonstrated the program's impact, with grants supporting new monitoring technology for early disease detection, clinical trial expansion in rural areas, and data-driven precision medicine platforms. These initiatives showcase Florida's commitment to leveraging technology and scientific advancements to improve patient outcomes and establish new standards of care.

In the first year of the initiative, support was provided to 30 researchers with $20 million. That investment was tripled in the second year, funding 65 researchers with $60 million.

"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 funding opportunity was announced at a World Cancer Research Day symposium event at the University of South Florida’s Morsani College of Medicine. The event provided a platform for experts in cutting-edge cancer prevention research to explore innovative approaches to reducing cancer risk through nutrition and food regulation reform, highlighting the intersection of science, policy, and prevention. Recent Florida Cancer Innovation Fund awarded projects were also showcased, including promising research in fasting, diet, and exercise interventions for cancer patients.

The funding opportunity is designed to strengthen Florida's position as a leader in cancer biomedical research while directly addressing the health needs of its citizens. Applications will be evaluated based on scientific merit, innovation potential, collaborative strength, and ability to improve patient outcomes for all Floridians. Priority will be given to translational research, 12-month clinical trials, direct interventions with measurable outcomes, and projects serving rural and medically underserved areas throughout Florida. Further, priority will be given to projects that focus on nutrition, and the repurposing of generic drugs such as ivermectin for cancer treatment. Collaborative projects that bring together oncologists, researchers, and cancer treatment centers to break down traditional silos and foster rapid advancements in cancer care are also prioritized.

Interested researchers and institutions can access the Funding Opportunity Announcement and application materials on the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund page on the Department’s website. The Department encourages applications from multidisciplinary teams representing the full spectrum of cancer research and care delivery.

About the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund

The Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, established through the Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program, section 381.915 Florida Statutes, transforms cancer care in Florida by accelerating research, improving treatment models, and breaking down systemic barriers to innovation. For more information about funding opportunities, visit the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund.