Florida sets bold agenda for cancer research with historic investments in innovation and patient support
Tallahassee, Florida – Florida Governor Ron DeSantis—along with First Lady Casey DeSantis—has unveiled a strong financial plan meant to support cancer research within the state. Made during their visit to Florida International University, the announcement focused on the Governor’s proposed Focus on Fiscal Responsibility Budget for the fiscal years 2025–26.
“Florida has made historic investments in cancer research and innovation, and we are looking forward to doing even more to fight this devastating disease. This morning, First Lady CaseyDeSantis 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,” Gov. DeSantis said.
The proposed budget includes several key initiatives with significant allocations aimed at advancing cancer research and care across Florida:
- Florida Cancer Innovation Fund: Continuing its support with a funding of $60 million, this initiative will back groundbreaking research and innovative projects at Florida-based institutions.
- Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program: With a proposed allocation of $132.5 million, this program aims to fund grants and establish the Florida Cancer Research Network to foster collaboration among healthcare providers, researchers, and facilities throughout the state.
- Cancer Connect Collaborative Incubator: An additional $30 million will be used to set up an incubator that focuses on specific areas of cancer research on a rotating basis every five years, starting with pediatric cancer.
Initiated as part of the Focus on Florida’s Future Budget for Fiscal Year 2024–25, the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund has already had noteworthy influence. The first round of applications closed in December 2024, resulting in awards such as a $2 million grant to First Ascent Biomedical for research on Functional Precision Medicine. Under examination is the second round of awards; announcements likely by mid-April 2025.
Looking forward, the fund intends to open application cycles quarterly in the following fiscal year, so highlighting even more the state’s commitment to lead in cancer research and innovation. Reiterating Florida’s leadership in medical research, the projects revealed aim to improve the evolution of data infrastructure and best practices for cancer therapy.
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State legislators are ready to study the proposed budget as the Governor’s legislative session gets under way. Particularly in healthcare, the proposed expenditures—especially in relation to increasing Florida’s position in the national fight against cancer, improving patient care, and generating new paths for research and development across the state—are likely to be essential.
