Innovative Developmental and Exploratory Award (IDEA)
The IDEA grant from the University of California funds innovative, high-risk breast cancer research projects with required advocate involvement to advance new scientific approaches.
Funder: University of California
Due Dates: October 16, 2026 (Letter of Intent) | March 4, 2027 (Full application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $150,000 (direct costs, 12 months) or $200,000 (direct costs, 18 months with human/animal subjects) per project; 18 months max duration.
Summary: Supports high-risk, innovative breast cancer research projects with required advocate involvement, administered by the University of California through the CBCRP.
Key Information: Research must be conducted primarily in California; breast cancer advocate involvement is required at all stages.
Description
The Innovative Developmental and Exploratory Award (IDEA) funds speculative, high-risk/high-reward breast cancer research projects that aim to test new concepts, challenge existing paradigms, or introduce innovative approaches not yet well represented in the field. Both established and early-career investigators are encouraged to apply. A unique feature of this award is the mandatory involvement of breast cancer advocates at every stage, ensuring research remains relevant and impactful for the community. The program is administered by the California Breast Cancer Research Program (CBCRP) at the University of California.
