Early-Stage Innovative Technology Development for Basic and Clinical Cancer Research (R61 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)
About
Through this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), the National Cancer Institute (NCI) solicits grant applications proposing to develop innovative technologies offering new capabilities for the molecular or cellular characterization of cancer or for improved handling and quality control of biospecimens for basic, clinical, or epidemiological cancer research. The NOFO solicits R61 applications for early-stage projects proposing proof-of-concept/pilot studies to test the technical feasibility of the proposed method, tool, assay, platform, or instrument. Technologies proposed for development may have potential for widespread applicability but must be focused for this program on cancer-relevant use cases. Projects proposing to apply or use existing technologies for hypothesis-driven research where the novelty resides in the biological or clinical target/question being pursued are not responsive to this solicitation and will not be reviewed. This funding opportunity is part of a broader NCI-sponsored Innovative Molecular Analysis Technologies (IMAT) Program.
The Early-Stage Innovative Technology Development for Basic and Clinical Cancer Research (R61 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) grant, administered by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), is designed for researchers and organizations developing groundbreaking technologies that advance cancer research capabilities. This funding opportunity specifically supports proof-of-concept and pilot studies testing the technical feasibility of novel methods, tools, assays, platforms, and instruments for molecular or cellular characterization of cancer. Applicants may also propose technologies for improved handling and quality control of biospecimens used in basic, clinical, or epidemiological cancer research. Entrepreneurs and research organizations should apply if they are creating innovative solutions with potential for widespread applicability in cancer research—not if they are applying existing technologies to hypothesis-driven research. This grant is part of the broader NCI-sponsored Innovative Molecular Analysis Technologies (IMAT) Program, making it ideal for innovators positioned to transform cancer research methodologies. Both domestic and international organizations, including foreign entities and non-domestic components of U.S. organizations, are eligible to compete for funding.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
November 10, 2026
Award Amount
Up to $150K
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Grant Amount
Up to $150K
Deadline
2026-11-10
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual (Deadline: November 10, 2026)
Best For
Researchers and organizations developing innovative cancer research technologies, proof-of-concept studies, early-stage technology development
Eligibility
Refer to Section III. Eligibility Information in the NOFO for additional information on eligibility.Foreign Organizations/International Collaborations:Non-domestic (non-U.S.) Entities (Foreign Organizations) are eligible to apply.Non-domestic (non-U.S.) components of U.S. Organizations are eligible to apply.Foreign components, as defined in the NIH Grants Policy Statement, are allowed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Early-Stage Innovative Technology Development for Basic and Clinical Cancer Research (R61 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)?
Eligible applicants include domestic U.S. organizations and foreign organizations. Non-domestic components of U.S. organizations and international collaborations are also eligible. For comprehensive eligibility details, including specific institutional requirements and other criteria, refer to Section III. Eligibility Information in the official Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) available on the NCI website.
How much funding does Early-Stage Innovative Technology Development for Basic and Clinical Cancer Research (R61 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) provide?
Funding for R61 applications ranges up to $150,000. Actual awards may vary based on project scope and review outcomes. Applicants should consult the official NOFO for detailed budget guidelines and any funding adjustments for the specific funding cycle.
How do I apply for Early-Stage Innovative Technology Development for Basic and Clinical Cancer Research (R61 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)?
Applications must be submitted through the NIH grants submission system. The deadline for this funding opportunity is November 10, 2026. Applicants should review the complete Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) on the NCI website for detailed application instructions, required components, and submission procedures. Early review of guidelines is recommended to ensure compliance with all requirements.
What can Early-Stage Innovative Technology Development for Basic and Clinical Cancer Research (R61 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) funding be used for?
Funding supports the development of innovative technologies focused on cancer research, including: proof-of-concept and pilot studies testing technical feasibility of novel methods, tools, assays, platforms, or instruments for molecular or cellular cancer characterization; technologies for improved biospecimen handling and quality control in basic, clinical, or epidemiological cancer research; and early-stage development of cancer-relevant applications. Funding does NOT support clinical trials or the application of existing technologies to hypothesis-driven research where novelty lies in the biological question rather than the technology itself.
Last updated: July 5, 2026