[Cancer Research UK](https://www.cancerresearchuk.org)

October 10, 2025 | April 10, 2026

Up to £250,000 per project for up to 18 months

Supports collaborative, early-stage drug discovery projects to develop novel therapeutics for childhood and young people’s cancers.

--- ## Description This scheme is designed to accelerate the translation of discovery research into new therapeutics for children and young people with cancer. Projects are delivered collaboratively between academic researchers and Cancer Research Horizons’ Therapeutic Innovation team, with Cancer Research UK providing funding and expert support throughout the process. The focus is on de-risking early-stage drug discovery projects—such as target identification, validation, and feasibility studies—to position them for further investment or development. The scheme is not intended for basic research, clinical development, or drug repurposing activities. --- ## Due Dates - October 10, 2025: Expression of interest submission deadline (October 2025 cycle) - April 10, 2026: Expression of interest submission deadline (April 2026 cycle) Applications are reviewed twice per year, in April and October. --- ## Funding Amount - Up to £250,000 per project - Maximum project duration: 18 months - Funding covers direct costs, including staff time, running expenses, and eligible outsourced activities (see [costs guidance](https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/for-researchers/apply-for-and-manage-your-funding/research-policies-and-guidance/costs-guidance-grants)) - In the UK, only direct research costs are funded (not overheads/indirects) --- ## Eligibility - Open to academic researchers worldwide - Applicants must be based at a university or research institute and lead their own independent research group or lab - Collaborative projects with Cancer Research Horizons’ Therapeutic Innovation team are required - The scheme is open to all childhood cancer indications and modalities - Not eligible: basic research, clinical development, drug repurposing, or projects focused on diagnostics, prevention, or exploratory studies of therapeutic resistance --- ## Application Process - **Two-stage process:** 1. **Expression of Interest (EOI):** Submit via the [Flexi-Grant system](https://cancerresearchuk.flexigrant.com/). EOIs are triaged for eligibility and strategic fit. 2. **Full Proposal:** If invited, you will work with a Therapeutic Innovation scientist to develop a detailed, collaborative project plan and budget. - The Therapeutic Innovation scientist supports proposal development but is not part of the final funding decision. - Final decisions are made by an external, independent review panel. - Feedback is provided, but funding decisions are final; resubmissions are only allowed if recommended by the committee. - Early contact with the program team is encouraged for a confidential discussion about project fit and remit. --- ## Additional Information - Projects must reach a clear inflection point within 18 months, demonstrating validation and a route to further development. - Reasonable adjustments and accessibility support are available for applicants with disabilities or long-term health conditions ([disability and accessibility support](https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/for-researchers/apply-for-and-manage-your-funding/research-policies-and-guidance/disability-accessibility-support-researchers)). - Intellectual property generated at Cancer Research Horizons’ premises typically vests with Cancer Research Horizons; collaborative agreements are in place (see [special terms and conditions](https://assets.ctfassets.net/u7vsjnoopqo5/3A3JgKKJPcwHsbkeAUfigl/0479f369150168b0639a4d8ec7e791a5/cruk_therapeutic_catalyst_scheme_-_special_conditions_oct2024.pdf)). --- ## External Links - [Scheme details & application instructions](https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/funding-for-researchers/our-funding-schemes/childhood-cancer-therapeutic-catalyst) - [Expression of Interest form (Flexi-Grant)](https://cancerresearchuk.flexigrant.com/) - [Costs guidance](https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/for-researchers/apply-for-and-manage-your-funding/research-policies-and-guidance/costs-guidance-grants) - [Research policies and guidance](https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/for-researchers/apply-for-and-manage-your-funding/research-policies-and-guidance) - [Disability and accessibility support](https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/for-researchers/apply-for-and-manage-your-funding/research-policies-and-guidance/disability-accessibility-support-researchers) - [Special terms and conditions (PDF)](https://assets.ctfassets.net/u7vsjnoopqo5/3A3JgKKJPcwHsbkeAUfigl/0479f369150168b0639a4d8ec7e791a5/cruk_therapeutic_catalyst_scheme_-_special_conditions_oct2024.pdf) --- ## Contact Information | Purpose | Contact | |----------------------------------|----------------------------------------| | General/program queries | [therapeutic.catalyst@cancer.org.uk](mailto:therapeutic.catalyst@cancer.org.uk) | | Grants & eligibility support | [supporter.services@cancer.org.uk](mailto:supporter.services@cancer.org.uk) | | Phone (Cancer Research UK HQ) | +44 (0)20 7242 0200 | | Online contact form | [Contact Cancer Research UK](https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-us/contact-us) | ---

Childhood Cancer Therapeutic Catalyst

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