DoW Peer Reviewed Cancer, Idea Award
Description
Summary: The fiscal year 2026 (FY26) Peer Reviewed Cancer Research Program (PRCRP) Idea Award (IA) supports innovative, untested, high-risk/potentially high-reward concepts, theories, paradigms, and/or basic cancer research. The advancement of knowledge in cancer research, patient care, and/or treatment options in the Military Health System (MHS) is critical to Service Members, Veterans, other military beneficiaries and the American public. Distinctive Features: The proposed project should demonstrate creative thinking and innovation. • Incremental advances, the next logical step, or switching a model system from one cancer to another cancer are not appropriate for this award. • Inclusion of preliminary data is not required; however, the project must be based on strong scientific rationale. • New for FY26: Early Career Investigator Option: The Early Career Investigator option is designed to support the continued development of promising independent investigators that are early in their faculty appointments.
Eligibility
See official grant page for eligibility requirements
Industry Tags
About This Grant
Summary: The fiscal year 2026 (FY26) Peer Reviewed Cancer Research Program (PRCRP) Idea Award (IA) supports innovative, untested, high-risk/potentially high-reward concepts, theories, paradigms, and/or basic cancer research. The advancement of knowledge in cancer research, patient care, and/or treatment options in the Military Health System (MHS) is critical to Service Members, Veterans, other military beneficiaries and the American public. Distinctive Features: The proposed project should demonstrate creative thinking and innovation. • Incremental advances, the next logical step, or switching a model system from one cancer to another cancer are not appropriate for this award. • Inclusion of preliminary data is not required; however, the project must be based on strong scientific rationale. • New for FY26: Early Career Investigator Option: The Early Career Investigator option is designed to support the continued development of promising independent investigators that are early in their faculty appointments.
Funding Information
- Estimated Total Program Funding
- $18,000,000
- Expected Number of Awards
- 30
Eligibility Overview
This opportunity from Defense Health Agency Contracting Activity - DHACA is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Healthcare are especially encouraged to review the requirements.
Federal grant opportunities like this one are typically open to a range of applicant types. Common eligible organizations include:
- Nonprofits and 501(c)(3) organizations
- Small businesses and startups (especially for SBIR/STTR programs)
- State, local, and tribal governments
- Colleges, universities, and research institutions
- Individuals (for select programs in education, arts, and research)
Eligibility requirements vary by opportunity. Always review the official listing before investing time in an application.
How to Apply
- 1
Review the full opportunity
Read the complete Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for this Defense Health Agency Contracting Activity - DHACA program on its official page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/362265).
- 2
Confirm eligibility
Check that your organization meets every requirement set by Defense Health Agency Contracting Activity - DHACA — applicant type, location, registration status, and any prior-award restrictions.
- 3
Prepare required documents
Gather your budget narrative, needs statement, organizational details, SAM.gov registration, and any required certifications.
- 4
Submit before the deadline
This opportunity closes on October 5, 2026. Submit at least 48 hours early — portal systems are often slow near closing time.
Grant Writing Tips
Proposals for healthcare programs such as those from Defense Health Agency Contracting Activity - DHACA are competitive — these tips can strengthen your application:
- ✓Start your application at least 4 weeks before the deadline — rushed proposals score lower.
- ✓Tailor your needs statement to match the funder's stated priorities, using their exact language where possible.
- ✓Have a colleague outside your team review your budget narrative before submitting — fresh eyes catch errors reviewers penalize.
More Grants from Defense Health Agency Contracting Activity - DHACA
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for DoW Peer Reviewed Cancer, Idea Award?
This opportunity from Defense Health Agency Contracting Activity - DHACA is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Healthcare are especially encouraged to review the requirements. Always confirm the full eligibility criteria on the official listing before applying.
How much funding does DoW Peer Reviewed Cancer, Idea Award provide?
The total estimated program funding for DoW Peer Reviewed Cancer, Idea Award is $18,000,000.
When is the deadline for DoW Peer Reviewed Cancer, Idea Award?
The application deadline for DoW Peer Reviewed Cancer, Idea Award is October 5, 2026. Submit at least 48 hours early to avoid last-minute portal issues.
How do I apply for DoW Peer Reviewed Cancer, Idea Award?
Apply for DoW Peer Reviewed Cancer, Idea Award through the official grant page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/362265). Confirm your eligibility and prepare your application materials before the deadline.
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