Exploratory Grants in Cancer Control (R21 Clinical Trial Optional)
About
This funding opportunity announcement (FOA) encourages the submission of exploratory/developmental research grant (R21) applications that focus on different aspects of cancer control by modifying behavior, screening, and understanding etiologic factors contributing to the development of cancer, and developing ways to control cancer. The overarching goal is to provide support to promote the early and conceptual stages of research efforts on novel scientific ideas that have the potential to substantially advance population-based cancer research, such as the development of novel techniques, agents, methodologies, models, or applications that could have a major impact on a field of cancer research (epidemiologic, biomedical, behavioral, health care delivery or clinical).
The Exploratory Grants in Cancer Control (R21 Clinical Trial Optional) program is designed for researchers and organizations seeking to develop and test novel, early-stage ideas in cancer control and prevention. This funding opportunity supports exploratory and developmental research that addresses behavioral modification, cancer screening improvements, etiologic factor understanding, and innovative cancer control strategies. The program is ideal for researchers working on population-based cancer research, including epidemiologic, biomedical, behavioral, health care delivery, and clinical approaches. Applicants can propose the development of novel techniques, agents, methodologies, models, or applications with significant potential to advance the cancer research field. Eligible organizations include academic institutions, federal agencies, faith-based and community-based organizations, HBCUs, Hispanic-serving institutions, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian serving institutions, and AANAPISIs. This grant provides crucial support for conceptual research phases, enabling investigators to generate preliminary data and establish feasibility for their innovative cancer control initiatives. Researchers with promising but preliminary ideas in cancer prevention, detection, or control should consider applying to advance their work from concept to implementation.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
September 7, 2028
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Funding Range
Varies by funding cycle
Deadline
2028-09-07
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual with specific deadline cycles
Best For
Researchers at academic institutions, HBCUs, minority-serving institutions, and community organizations conducting early-stage cancer control research
Eligibility
Other Eligible Applicants include the following: Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions; Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions (AANAPISISs); Eligible Agencies of the Federal Government; Faith-based or Community-based Organizations; Hispanic-serving Institutions; Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs); Indian/Native American Tribal Govern
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Exploratory Grants in Cancer Control (R21 Clinical Trial Optional)?
Eligible applicants include HBCUs, Hispanic-serving institutions, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian serving institutions, Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions (AANAPISIs), eligible federal agencies, faith-based and community-based organizations, and Indian/Native American tribal governments. For complete and current eligibility requirements, applicants should consult the official funding opportunity announcement on the NIH website.
How much funding does Exploratory Grants in Cancer Control (R21 Clinical Trial Optional) provide?
Specific funding amounts vary and are determined per funding cycle. For detailed information about funding levels, budget limits, and award amounts for the current cycle, please visit the official NIH grants page or contact the sponsoring program directly.
How do I apply for Exploratory Grants in Cancer Control (R21 Clinical Trial Optional)?
Applications are submitted through the NIH grants submission system. Applicants should review the complete funding opportunity announcement for specific submission requirements, formatting guidelines, and required documentation. Visit grants.nih.gov or the sponsoring institute's website for application instructions, deadlines, and submission portals. Early preparation and consultation with your grants office is recommended.
What can Exploratory Grants in Cancer Control (R21 Clinical Trial Optional) funding be used for?
Funding supports exploratory and developmental research in cancer control, including novel behavioral modification strategies, improved screening methodologies, studies of cancer etiologic factors, and innovative cancer control approaches. Research can focus on epidemiologic, biomedical, behavioral, health care delivery, or clinical aspects. The program encourages development of novel techniques, agents, methodologies, models, or applications with potential for major impact on cancer research and population health.
Last updated: July 5, 2026