Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis today visited Florida International University to unveil a series of new cancer research initiatives as part of the Governor’s proposed Focus on Fiscal Responsibility Budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26.
The announcement also highlighted the ongoing success of the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, which is now entering its third round of applications for awards during the current fiscal year.
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“Florida has made historic investments in cancer research and innovation, and we are looking forward to doing even more to fight this devastating disease,” Governor DeSantis said. “This morning, First Lady Casey DeSantis and I highlighted our state’s cancer initiatives for 2025. We are committed to finding solutions that can transform cancer care, support patients and their loved ones, and ultimately save countless lives.”
The new budget proposal includes significant funding for several key cancer initiatives:
- Florida Cancer Innovation Fund: Continued funding of $60 million will support groundbreaking research and innovative projects at Florida-based institutions.
- Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program: An allocation of $132.5 million is proposed to fund grants and establish the Florida Cancer Research Network, fostering collaboration among healthcare providers, researchers, and facilities across the state.
- Cancer Connect Collaborative Incubator: A new investment of $30 million will establish an incubator focused on specific areas of cancer research on a rotating basis every five years, with an initial focus on pediatric cancer.
The Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, established as part of the Focus on Florida’s Future Budget for Fiscal Year 2024-25, has already made a significant impact. Its first application cycle, which opened in November 2024 and closed on December 13, 2024, resulted in awards such as a $2 million grant to First Ascent Biomedical for research on Functional Precision Medicine.
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The second round of awards is currently under review, with winners expected to be notified around mid-April 2025. Looking ahead, the fund plans to open application cycles quarterly in the next fiscal year.
The new initiatives underscore Florida’s commitment to advancing cancer research, improving treatment options, and fostering innovation in disease management. The funding is intended to further develop data infrastructure and best practices for cancer treatment, reinforcing the state’s reputation as a leader in medical research.
As the Governor’s legislative session begins, state lawmakers are expected to review the proposed budget and its investments in healthcare. With these historic funding levels, Florida aims to bolster its role in the national fight against cancer, enhancing patient care and creating new opportunities for research and development across the state.
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