ORLANDO, Fla. – Gov. Ron DeSantis discussed Florida\u2019s growing investment in cancer research during a trip to Orlando on Wednesday saying that growth has hit record levels during his time as governor.<\/p>\n
\u25b6 LISTEN TO ORLANDO\u2019S MORNING NEWS EXPRESS PODCAST ON WDBO<\/a><\/p>\n \u201cNearly 40% of Floridians will face a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime,\u201d DeSantis said in a social media post. \u201cWe are committed to supporting them and their families in any way we can.\u201d<\/p>\n During the event, DeSantis announced $60 million in awards through the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Florida Cancer Innovation Fund and opened the application cycle for Fiscal Year 2026-27, with $70 million available for new awards, a $10 million increase over last year. <\/p>\n Since 2019, Florida has invested more than $1.4 billion in cancer research and treatment, and funding for cancer research programs has increased by more than 175% under DeSantis according to a state press release<\/a>.<\/p>\n In fiscal year 2026-27 alone, Florida committed nearly $228 million to cancer research and innovation. <\/p>\n READ: Governor Ron DeSantis Announces $60 Million in Cancer Innovation Awards and Opens $70 Million Application Cycle<\/a><\/p>\n \u201cGovernor DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis have shown tremendous leadership in making cancer research a priority in Florida, and I\u2019m incredibly grateful for their continued commitment,\u201dsaid State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo. \u201cThese investments give researchers the freedom to ask important questions, explore new ideas, and follow the evidence wherever it leads.\u201d <\/p>\n The Florida Cancer Innovation Fund was established in 2023 with an initial investment of $20 million to support Florida-based researchers, institutions, startups and other entities pursuing innovative approaches to cancer prevention, treatment and cures. <\/p>\n \u201cGovernor DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis had a bold vision for what Florida could accomplish in the fight against cancer, and nearly 150 funded projects later, that vision is paying off for families in every part of our state,\u201d said Agency for Health Care Administration Secretary Shevaun L. Harris.<\/p>\n Following a competitive review process, $60 million was awarded through the Fiscal Year 2025-26 application cycle to researchers and institutions advancing the next generation of cancer prevention and treatment strategies. <\/p>\n The awards support a diverse group of grantees across Florida, from established research institutions to emerging innovators pursuing promising new approaches in the fight against cancer. <\/p>\n The Fiscal Year 2026-27 application cycle is now open, with $70 million available for new awards, representing a $10 million increase over last year.<\/p>\n Florida\u2019s continued investments are designed to ensure researchers have the resources to pursue breakthroughs while giving patients and families greater access to innovative treatments and hope for the future. <\/p>\n \u201cFrom rural communities to major cancer centers, Florida patients are getting access to groundbreaking research and life-changing care close to home. This is what happens when a state decides cancer research is not optional. It is a priority,\u201d Harris said. <\/p>\n Click here<\/a> to download our free news, weather and traffic app. And click here<\/a> to subscribe to our daily 3 Big Things newsletter.<\/p>\n \u00a92026 Cox Media Group<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"ORLANDO, Fla. – Gov. 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