Research Overview
Funded Research
Our mission has always been focused: to save lives by funding cures for cancer. We’ve funded 1,258 grants since 1994. Each one has been directed to physicians and scientists who have pioneered techniques to make breakthroughs in cancer research. By investing in these extraordinary people and their projects, we continue to make great strides in unraveling the mysteries of cancer.
Grants Process
Since awarding our first grant in 1994, the V Foundation has funded over $353 million in research grants. Our Scientific Advisory Committee selects grant recipients through a highly competitive process. We invest in promising people and projects.
$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).
Five Types:
The V Foundation currently awards five types of grants, from early career to larger grants that reach beyond our usual grants.
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.
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