Tampa, FL – Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis visited the University of South Florida on September 24 to mark World Cancer Research Day and announce the third round of funding through the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund. The initiative will provide $60 million for high-impact projects with a special focus on how nutrition can help prevent or treat cancer.
The announcement underscores Florida’s growing commitment to cutting-edge cancer research and treatment. Since its creation, the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund has directed $80 million toward 95 researchers and institutions statewide. With this year’s allocation, the total investment will reach $140 million.
“I was proud to announce that applications are opening this week for the next round of cancer research projects,” Governor DeSantis said. “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.”
First Lady Casey DeSantis emphasized the importance of prevention alongside treatment. “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,” she said. “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 symposium, hosted at USF’s Morsani College of Medicine, brought together experts to discuss the future of cancer prevention, particularly how diet and food regulation reforms can reduce risk. Attendees also highlighted ongoing projects supported by the Fund, including studies on fasting, exercise, and precision medicine.
Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo, Florida’s State Surgeon General, noted the state’s momentum in advancing life-saving research. “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,” he said.
The Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, part of the Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program, prioritizes projects with measurable outcomes, including short-term clinical trials, translational research, and initiatives serving rural or medically underserved communities. This year’s funding will also prioritize proposals that explore nutrition-based interventions and the potential repurposing of generic drugs for cancer treatment.
Florida’s cancer research investments are already showing results. Previous grants have expanded clinical trials in rural communities, introduced new monitoring technology for early disease detection, and built data-driven platforms to personalize treatment. By continuing to invest in innovative science, state leaders aim to improve survival rates and set new standards of care.
Applications for the 2025 funding cycle are now open and will be evaluated based on scientific merit, innovation, collaboration, and potential impact on patient outcomes across Florida.
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.
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