RFA: Cancer Health Research Centers (CHERCs)
Funds coordinated research centers to address cancer health disparities and advance health equity through community-engaged, solution-focused research across the cancer continuum.
Funder: American Cancer Society
Due Dates: February 9, 2026 (LOI, new applications) | June 1, 2026 (Full application, new/renewal) | December 1, 2026 (Resubmissions only)
Funding Amounts: Up to $1.65M total ($1.5M direct + 10% indirect) over 4 years for new awards (includes Center core and one subaward); renewals: $500k direct for initial 4-year renewal, $250k direct for subsequent renewals.
Summary: Supports coordinated research centers conducting actionable, community-engaged research to address cancer health disparities and advance health equity.
Key Information: Only one subaward (RSG or CSDG) per new Center application; LOI required for new applications; resubmissions do not require LOI.
Description
This opportunity funds Cancer Health Research Centers (CHERCs) to address local or regional cancer health disparities through coordinated, solution-focused research. Centers must demonstrate a clear scientific agenda, robust community engagement, and a coordinated approach to advancing health equity. Projects may span the cancer continuum—including prevention, screening, treatment, access to care, and survivorship—and must focus on populations experiencing significant health inequities. Each Center includes a Supportive Core to foster collaboration, mentoring, and dissemination. Priority areas include rural health, early onset cancers, racial/ethnic and immigrant disparities, sexual/gender minorities, age-specific needs, environmental justice, and disabilities.
