About The Foundation
Our Story
The V Foundation for Cancer Research, founded by ESPN and renowned basketball coach Jim Valvano, has a singular mission: to achieve Victory Over Cancer®.
Since its inception in 1993, the V Foundation has allocated over $353 million in grants for cancer research across the nation, solidifying its position as a leading advocate for cutting-edge cancer research. Through the generosity of donors, the Foundation has an endowment covering administrative expenses, ensuring that 100% of direct contributions support the most promising cancer research conducted by exceptional scientists from diverse backgrounds, investigating various cancer types in all stages of the cancer journey – from the lab to the clinic.
Our Impact on Cancer Research
At the core of the V Foundation’s mission lies an unwavering commitment to saving lives and uncovering cures for cancer. This dedication serves as the driving force behind every donation, including yours, propelling us forward in our relentless pursuit of progress in cancer research. This is why we ensure every penny of every dollar donated by people like you makes a tangible difference in the fight against this devastating disease.
Through strategic allocation of resources and unwavering dedication, we’re empowering the brightest minds in the field to push the boundaries of cancer research in all disciplines – including specific funds for childhood cancer research, breast cancer research and racial and ethnic disparities in cancer research. Your support fuels innovative projects, accelerates promising discoveries, and brings us closer to our ultimate goal: a world free from the burden of cancer.
Our Team Accelerating Cancer Research
Each day, inspired by Jim Valvano's indomitable spirit and his iconic words, "Don’t give up . . . Don’t ever give up!”®, we strive closer to realizing his vision of Victory Over Cancer®. This pursuit demands an exceptional team, and an exceptional team thrives in an equally remarkable environment. Thus, we've diligently cultivated a workplace that attracts and retains a diverse cadre of passionate, dedicated, and talented individuals.
See the full TeamOur Collaboration for Progress
The V Foundation for Cancer Research is fortunate to collaborate with numerous generous organizations and corporations that share our fervor for defeating cancer. Together with these allies, we endeavor to fulfill Jim’s dream of defeating cancer.
Thanks to the support of these partners, we're empowered to finance crucial cancer research aimed at one day curing the more than 100 diseases that are collectively known as "cancer."
View all Partners
2,001,140
The number of people in the U.S. who are projected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2024.
42% and 40%
In the U.S., an estimated 42 out of 100 men and 40 out of 100 women will develop cancer in their lifetime.
9,620 Children
In 2024, an estimated 9,620 children ages 0-14 in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer.
Types of Cancer
There are more than 100 types of cancer.
Common Cancers
The most common cancers (listed in descending order according to estimated new cases in 2024) are for men: prostate cancer, lung & bronchus cancer, colorectal cancers, urinary bladder cancer and melanoma of the skin; for women: breast cancer, lung and bronchus cancer, colorectal cancer, uterine cancer and melanoma of the skin.
Stages
Most cancers are categorized by stage. “Stage 0” cancer is called “in situ.” This means abnormal cells have stayed with the originating cell layer. “Stage I” is localized and easiest to treat. “Stage IV” means abnormal cells have spread the farthest. This is the most difficult stage to treat.
Survivors
There are an estimated 18.1 million cancer survivors in the United States. The number of survivors is expected to increase to 22.5 million by 2032.
611,720
In 2024, an estimated 611,720 will die of cancer, an average of almost 1,680 people per day.
Founded in 1993
The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, award-winning basketball coach and commentator.
100% of Donations
The V Foundation awards 100% of direct donations to cancer research and programs. The V Foundation’s endowment covers administrative expenses.
Cutting Edge Research
The V Foundation supports cutting-edge research into all types of cancers occurring anywhere in the body and affecting adults or children.
1,258 Grants Awarded
The V Foundation awards competitive grants through a process vetted by a Scientific Advisory Committee. This committee is comprised of the nation’s top doctors and scientists.
$353 Million
The V Foundation has awarded over $353 million, which has been used to fund cancer research grants nationwide.
163 Institutions
The V Foundation has awarded grants to more than 163 institutions in the US (across 40 states) and 4 institutions in Canada (across 3 provinces).
12 Consecutive 4-Star Ratings
The V Foundation has received 12 consecutive 4-star ratings (out of 4) by Charity Navigator, a leading charity evaluator. This places the V Foundation among the top 2% of all charities evaluated.
