Gov. Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis on Wednesday announced $60 million in new funding for cancer research through the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, an initiative established under the Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program.
The announcement was made at the University of South Florida during the Department of Health’s World Cancer Research Day symposium. The program, now in its third year, is designed to support competitive research projects that produce measurable results.
The 2025 funding round emphasizes studies on nutrition’s role in prevention and treatment, while also encouraging proposals on emerging treatment methods and the repurposing of generic drugs. Applications will be open to institutions and researchers statewide, with priority given to projects that include short-term clinical trials, direct patient interventions, and efforts in rural and underserved communities.
“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 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.”
Past grants have funded projects involving early detection technology, rural clinical trial expansion, and precision medicine platforms. The Department of Health said applications will be judged on scientific merit, innovation, collaboration, and potential impact on patient outcomes.
“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,” said Gov. DeSantis.
