Cancer research is very expensive. In 2024, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) was allocated $7.22 billion, which was a decrease of $96 million dollars from the previous year. Most of these funds are disbursed as research grants to external organizations, such as the University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center (UCCCC).
Where does UCCCC funding come from?
The UCCCC’s total active research funding is $83.9 million, including $51 million from federal grants, $12.9 million from philanthropic organizations and individual contributions, and $20 million from industry grants. Additionally, $8.8 million is directly supporting trainees including graduate students, medical students and postdoctoral scholars. Federal grants come directly from organizations like the NCI, and they rely on scientists to write grant applications that compete for selection by a committee of independent scientists (called peer review) to receive this funding.
What do NCI grants pay for?
Research grants from the NCI, National Institutes of Health (NIH), and similar organizations allow universities to pay graduate student stipends and salaries for postdoctoral scholars and staff scientists. The grants are also used to purchase the materials needed to conduct research, including equipment, animal maintenance costs and cell culture materials. Additionally, academic journals that publish scientific research charge publishing fees, which scientists pay with grant funds. They can also be used to directly fund clinical trials in cancer, which are conducted at no additional cost to the patients.
How is NCI funding determined?
This funding comes directly from U.S. Congress, as the NCI is a national agency within the NIH. The budget is initially proposed by the President, but it must be approved by Congress. In the past, the NCI has also received additional funding called Cancer Moonshot Funding through the 21st Century Cures Act. This additional support was intended to accelerate cancer research discoveries to directly impact the wellbeing of patients. Several UCCCC initiatives were directly funded by Cancer Moonshot, including the national Genomic Data Commons, colorectal cancer screening programs, and smoking cessation programs.
How do scientists participate in the funding process?
One way that scientists work to improve access to cancer funding is through science policy and advocacy work. The NIH and the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) co-sponsor a Science Policy Fellowship, which allows young scientists to serve in the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of the federal government to advocate for science policy, including funding and regulations. This spring, members of the UCCCC travelled to the Illinois state capitol in Springfield to advocate for cancer patients with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. Other UCCCC members participated in the Association of American Cancer Institutes/American Association for Cancer Research Hill Day in Washington, D.C.
How can I contribute?
The generosity of donors, volunteers and supporters continues to play an important role in funding cancer research. From gifts of cash to matching gifts to planned gifts, and more, gifts of all sizes make an impact on researchers’ ability to pursue the most innovative ideas. Most organizations that do cancer research have a foundation or development office that accepts donations directly. The Breakthrough Board of the Cancer Research Foundation hosts various fundraisers, including an annual philanthropy gala to support cancer research efforts at the University of Chicago. In addition, participation in national events, such as the American Cancer Society’s Walk and Roll, raise awareness and funding that supports cancer research, advocacy, and patient resources. Those interested in advocacy can get involved with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network or any of the disease-specific nonprofit organizations.
