Exceptional Project Grants (XP)
The Breast Cancer Alliance Exceptional Project Grants fund innovative, independent breast cancer research focused on novel therapies, diagnostics, and treatment approaches not yet federally supported.
Funder: Breast Cancer Alliance
Due Dates: March 31, 2026 (LOI deadline) | August 31, 2026 (Full application, by invitation only)
Funding Amounts: $100,000 total for one year (includes salary and project costs; indirect costs capped at 8% of direct costs)
Summary: Funds innovative, stand-alone breast cancer research projects not yet federally supported, with priority for novel therapies, diagnostics, and treatment approaches.
Description
The Exceptional Project Grants (XP) from the Breast Cancer Alliance (BCA) provide seed funding for creative and unique breast cancer research projects that have not yet qualified for federal grants. Designed as a critical bridge, this program enables investigators to generate preliminary results and data necessary for pursuing larger-scale funding. The grant supports research reasonably related to the treatment, prevention, or cure of breast cancer, with a focus on projects that are exceptional and can stand alone, rather than routine components of larger funded projects. For the 2027 cycle, priority will be given to research developing novel therapeutic strategies, overcoming treatment resistance, creating new diagnostic and prognostic tools, utilizing liquid biopsy, or advancing radiation therapy approaches. Awardees are expected to engage with BCA through required reporting and site visits.
