The Mark Foundation ASPIRE Award
High-risk, high-reward cancer research grants that fast-track feasibility and proof-of-concept studies across basic science, translational oncology, innovative technologies, and biomarker-rich early clinical research—aimed at rapidly reaching critical inflection points and impact for patients.
Eligibility Criteria:
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Open worldwide to nonprofit academic/research institutions; collaborations allowed.
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PI must be an independent investigator (tenure-track or equivalent).
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Applications may be via focused RFPs or by invitation; proposals are reviewed internally and externally for scientific merit and impact.
Funding Details:
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ASPIRE I: up to 12 months and up to USD 250,000 (clinical studies may be up to 24 months and USD 500,000).
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ASPIRE II: up to 36 months and up to USD 750,000 (larger amounts considered for clinical studies).
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Typical pathway: start with ASPIRE I; successful projects may be invited to ASPIRE II (in rare cases, by invitation, start directly at ASPIRE II).
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Indirect costs ≤10% of direct costs; co-investigators permitted; revenue-sharing terms apply.
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Clinical awards: ≤25% of the total budget may cover trial operations (e.g., research nurses, data management, IRB, databases); funds released after required approvals.
Deadline:
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Varies by RFP or invitation.
Where to Go for Further Information:
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Check The Mark Foundation grants portal and join the mailing list for new ASPIRE RFPs, instructions, and timelines.
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