Program-Directed Initiatives
The Program-Directed Initiatives by the California Breast Cancer Research Program fund collaborative research on breast cancer biology, prevention, disparities, and research infrastructure in California.
Funder: California Breast Cancer Research Program
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2027 (LOI/SmartSimple open) | March 2028 (Full application)
Funding Amounts: Typically $20M+ allocated across initiatives per cycle; individual award sizes and durations vary by mechanism and topic.
Summary: Funds collaborative, coordinated research on breast cancer prevention, environmental factors, and disparities, leveraging California’s unique resources to advance impactful studies.
Key Information: Research must be conducted primarily in California and led by California-based PIs/institutions.
Description
The Program-Directed Initiatives of the California Breast Cancer Research Program (CBCRP) support large-scale, collaborative research addressing environmental factors, disparities, and primary prevention strategies in breast cancer. Leveraging California’s diverse populations and research strengths, these initiatives aim to generate practical solutions and significantly advance the field. Three funding mechanisms are used: Requests for Qualifications (RFQs) for targeted studies, Program Directed Awards (PDAs) for projects identified by a Steering Committee, and Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for investigator-initiated research on priority topics. Proposals are reviewed by external experts and advocates, with final decisions made by the CBCRP Council.
The next cycle, titled "Reducing the Burden of Breast Cancer Initiatives," will focus on:
- Biology, subtype, and etiologic drivers (e.g., body weight, inflammation, breast density, reproductive factors)
- Survivorship, support services, and quality of care
- Tools and resources for research (e.g., surveillance systems, policy/funding/infrastructure)
