CureSearch

CureSearch Catapult Award in Pediatric Cancer

Accelerates “clinic-ready” pediatric oncology therapies into Phase 1–2 trials, emphasizing high-need indications (e.g., high-risk/relapsed/metastatic, AYA) with clear milestones; up to USD 2,500,000 over three years. 

Eligibility Criteria:

  • PI at a nonprofit academic/research institution (worldwide) or a small, privately held startup/biotech/pharma; doctoral degree required. Collaborative academia–industry projects encouraged. 

  • Projects must be IND-ready, under an active IND (or equivalent), or adult-approved agents not yet studied in pediatric oncology. 

  • If requesting ≥ USD 500,000, PI effort ≥10%. No active CureSearch grant in the same cycle. 

Funding Details:

  • Up to USD 2,500,000 total (≤3 years), including up to 10% indirect costs. NIH salary cap applies; equipment ≤20% of direct costs; travel ≤ USD 5,000/year; no tuition/visa/professional dues. Payments biannual for academics; for-profits may use milestone/equity schedules. 

  • Expected milestones: first patient enrolled year 1; accrual complete year 2; manuscript submitted by end of year 3. 

Deadline:

  • LOI due: October 7, 2025 (11:59 p.m.)

  • LOI decisions/invites: November 10, 2025

  • Full application due: January 18, 2026

  • Earliest award notice: March 2026 (rolling, funds permitting). 

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