Best Grants for Cancer Nonprofits in Washington

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and schools in Washington working on cancer, health, hunger, youth, veterans, or disability services can apply for $2,500 - $10,000 in program support. Focused on community health and human services, the Albertsons Companies Foundation invites applicants serving neighborhoods where its stores operate; an employee sponsor can strengthen applications.

Cancer research nonprofits and public institutions in Washington and Oregon can seek $350,000 - $1,050,000 to fund cancer research projects, equipment, IT, data systems, and capacity building. With a mission to advance human potential, Kuni Foundation provides Discovery Grants for innovative, equity-focused cancer research led by principal investigators based in Washington or Oregon.

Cancer research nonprofits and public institutions in Washington and Oregon can seek one-year grants to launch or expand innovative cancer research projects, including equipment, technology, and data systems. With a mission to advance impactful cancer research, Wayne D Kuni and Joan E Kuni Foundation supports program development, capacity building, capital needs, and research and evaluation efforts, especially collaborative, multi-institutional work. Awards up to US $100,000.

This initiative aims to support research interventions targeting disparities in liver diseases and liver cancer among underserved populations in the U.S. It encourages innovative approaches to reduce health inequities and improve health outcomes. The funding opportunity is available through various deadlines for both standard and renewal applications, promoting multi-level strategies to address these critical health issues effectively.

Organizations conducting cancer-related comparative clinical effectiveness research can apply for funding up to Up to US $13,000,000 to improve care and outcomes across the cancer care continuum. Grants from Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute help U.S.-recognized private and public sector entities, including those in Washington, partner with communities to address screening barriers, treatment quality, and survivorship follow-up needs.

Cancer research institutions and other eligible organizations in Washington can seek funding for retrospective, patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research using existing data sources. The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute supports studies addressing cancer and related health conditions that inform healthcare decision making and improve outcomes, with awards up to US $2,000,000.

Cancer research institutions and translational research centers in Washington conducting human-focused cancer/oncology studies can access funding through the National Institutes of Health. This National Cancer Institute SPORE P50 program offers US $25,000,000 to support state-of-the-art translational research improving prevention, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of organ-specific or biologically related human cancers, including cross-cutting themes like pediatric cancers or epigenetics.

Graduating high school seniors and healthcare professionals pursuing oncology or hematology education in Central or Southern Illinois can apply for tuition and professional development support, including certifications and conferences. Grants from Heart of Illinois Community Foundation help those in Macon, Moultrie, or Piatt County advance cancer-related training, which may benefit Washington cancer nonprofits through better-prepared providers.

Washington cancer clinicians in radiation oncology can access funding through the American Society for Radiation Oncology and the American Cancer Society to build independent research careers. Full-time faculty at U.S. academic institutions or eligible nonprofits with clinical duties may receive about US $135,000 annually for 3–5 years to conduct cancer research while maintaining clinical practice.

Practicing radiation oncologists in the U.S. conducting cancer research can apply for the ACS-ASTRO Felix Feng, MD Clinician Scientist Development Award, with awards of US $729,000 over three to five years. Washington cancer-focused institutions may benefit if they support a clinician scientist pursuing research across the cancer care continuum.

Nonprofit healthcare organizations, medical schools, hospitals, and patient advocacy groups working on cancer and other diseases can seek funding for healthcare-focused programs in Washington. Incyte supports initiatives that provide healthcare information and education for students, providers, patients, and caregivers. Grants, charitable contributions, and sponsorships are available to eligible 501(c)(3) and other tax-exempt organizations.

Incyte Corporation invites organizations to submit membership requests aimed at enhancing healthcare access for patients and advocates. As a biopharmaceutical leader, Incyte supports initiatives that align with its mission to improve patient lives through grants and contributions. Eligible entities include medical schools, associations, non-profits, and advocacy groups. Requests should comply with Incyte's regulatory standards and be submitted at least 60 days prior to the required decision date.

The 2026 Radiation Oncology Institute- Innovation Awards aim to advance cancer treatment by integrating radiation therapy with immunotherapy. Researchers are invited to submit proposals that explore optimal combinations of these modalities to enhance patient outcomes. Funding of up to $100,000 over two years will support projects focused on identifying effective treatment strategies, understanding mechanisms of synergy, and improving access to care. This initiative represents a significant opportunity for innovative research in oncology.

The Radiation Oncology Institute (ROI) Innovation Awards, offered by the American Society for Radiation Oncology, aim to accelerate innovative ideas in radiation therapy. Currently accepting applications for the 2026 awards, the program focuses on optimizing the combination of radiation therapy and immunotherapy to enhance cancer treatment outcomes. By supporting practical research, ROI strives to transform clinical practices and improve patient care in the fight against cancer.

Pfizer is offering a grant opportunity for independent medical education initiatives focused on Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer (MIBC). This program aims to address the current knowledge gaps among healthcare professionals regarding emerging treatment data and its potential impact on clinical practices. By collaborating with Astellas, Pfizer seeks proposals that enhance awareness and understanding of the evolving MIBC landscape, ultimately improving patient outcomes in this critical area of unmet medical need.

The Laurendeau Cancer Care Fund, established in 1980, offers financial support to residents of Whatcom County undergoing cancer treatment. Named after Dr. Theresa Laurendeau, a dedicated pathologist, the fund addresses the mental and financial challenges faced by cancer patients and their families. With initial funding from Dr. Laurendeau, the foundation has assisted over 500 patients, ensuring they receive the medical care needed without undue financial burden. For inquiries, contact the Chuckanut Health Foundation.

The Joyce Bytof Memorial Cancer Survivors Scholarship, established by Joyce Bytof in collaboration with the American Cancer Society, supports childhood cancer survivors graduating from specific Wisconsin high schools. This scholarship aims to assist them in pursuing higher education despite the financial and academic challenges posed by their experiences. Joyce's legacy continues to inspire hope and resilience among young survivors as they strive for academic success and a brighter future.

The AACR-Torrey Coast Foundation Transpacific Gastric and Esophageal Cancer Research Partnership Grant supports innovative research on upper gastrointestinal malignancies, which are responsible for over one million deaths globally in 2023. This grant encourages collaboration between U.S. and Asian institutions, focusing on resistance, metastasis, and novel treatment strategies. Proposals should detail plans for clinical translation and are open to researchers at all career stages, especially those new to upper GI cancer research.

The BMS Community Giving program supports IRS-qualified 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations addressing unmet medical needs, promoting STEM education, and providing essential services. Eligible organizations must serve communities in the U.S. where BMS employees reside. Applications are accepted year-round, with a recommendation to submit at least eight weeks in advance. The program prioritizes health-related public missions and requests that fit within BMS's therapeutic interests, while excluding political, discriminatory, and sectarian organizations.

Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation Inc supports independent medical education to enhance healthcare professional competence and improve patient health outcomes. Their mission is to be a global leader in innovative medical education, focusing on evidence-based activities that address critical gaps in knowledge. By fostering excellence in healthcare, they aim to ensure measurable improvements in performance and patient outcomes across various disease areas.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) invites applications for the validation of biomarkers and assays for cancer detection and treatment. This funding opportunity allows for biphasic or monophasic applications to support both analytical and clinical validation phases. Successful projects will leverage human specimens to develop assays that enhance cancer treatment and prevention, ensuring multidisciplinary collaboration among scientists and clinicians. This initiative aims to improve cancer management through reliable and clinically validated tools.

The American Heart Association is seeking proposals to study the prevalence and treatment of cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic diseases among cancer patients and survivors. Given the over 16.7 million cancer survivors in the U.S., this research aims to highlight critical health disparities, identify treatment modalities, and explore shared risk factors. Applications focusing on underrepresented populations and utilizing real-world data sources are especially encouraged, aiming to improve health outcomes in this vulnerable group.

The ASCO Clinical Oncology & Research Experience (ASCO CORE) offers medical students immersive exposure to the field of oncology through shadowing experiences in clinical and research settings. With two distinct tracks, participants can gain insights into patient care or research practices, guided by mentors. Eligible students must be enrolled in a U.S. DO or MD program and maintain a good academic record. This program aims to inspire the next generation of oncology professionals.

Grants Program for Penn Investigators - Faculty Awards

Research grant applications in basic science, prevention, disease interception, and early detection that are relevant to the study of BRCA1/2 will be considered. The Basser Cancer Interception Institute focuses on funding new endeavors in emerging, orthogonal fields beyond DNA damage (e.g. mechanisms of haploinsufficiency, cancer evolution and tissue tropism). 

Grants focused on the following are of particular interest:

• Cancer interception and the pre-cancer disease state
• Issues relevant to men (including but not limited to prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, male breast cancer)
• Potential for translation into clinical practice
• Early detection

Grants that demonstrate a potential for translation into clinical practice will be prioritized for funding.

Faculty Awards

Faculty awards are for two years with a funding level up to $200,000 per year.

Grants Program for Penn Investigators - Early career awards for Fellows, Postdocs and Instructors

Research grant applications in basic science, prevention, disease interception, and early detection that are relevant to the study of BRCA1/2 will be considered. The Basser Cancer Interception Institute focuses on funding new endeavors in emerging, orthogonal fields beyond DNA damage (e.g. mechanisms of haploinsufficiency, cancer evolution and tissue tropism). 

Grants focused on the following are of particular interest:

• Cancer interception and the pre-cancer disease state
• Issues relevant to men (including but not limited to prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, male breast cancer)
• Potential for translation into clinical practice
• Early detection

Grants that demonstrate a potential for translation into clinical practice will be prioritized for funding.

Early career awards for Fellows, Postdocs and Instructors

Early career awards for Fellows, Postdocs and Instructors up to $100,000 for one year. Grants are eligible for competitive renewal upon reapplication and are contingent on progress the first year.

The CORE Funding: AHNS Presidential Award supports innovative research that integrates emerging technologies in head and neck cancer studies. This initiative aims to address critical gaps in early detection and treatment, especially for patients with advanced disease. By leveraging tools such as AI and advanced imaging, the program seeks to enhance understanding of disease mechanisms and improve patient-centered intervention strategies, ultimately advancing the field of otolaryngology.

The CORE Funding: AHNS Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association Award aims to support vital research projects focused on thyroid cancer, encompassing prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes. This initiative by the American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery Foundation promotes advancements in the field through funding opportunities that enhance research capabilities and foster collaboration among researchers. Through the support of this award, significant strides can be made in understanding and combating thyroid cancer.