The World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) Regular Grant Programme 2026–2027 supports innovative and original research investigating how diet, nutrition, body composition, physical activity, and sleep influence cancer prevention and survivorship.
The new 2026–2027 call has expanded its geographic eligibility to researchers anywhere in the world and introduces six priority research areas, including integrative oncology, lifestyle and weight-loss medications, early-onset cancers, early-life exposures, ingested contaminants, and ultra-processed foods. Investigators can apply through either an Investigator-Initiated Grant or a Pilot and Feasibility Grant stream.
Eligibility Criteria
- Lead applicants must hold a research position at their host institution for the duration of the proposed project.
- Eligible host organizations are now located anywhere in the world.
- Applications must focus on at least one of the six 2026–2027 priority areas.
- Investigators may apply for research addressing cancer prevention or survivorship.
- Projects may use basic, epidemiological, clinical, translational, or implementation research approaches where appropriate to the research question.
- The proposed research must have clear relevance to WCRF’s remit concerning diet, nutrition, physical activity, body composition, sleep, and cancer.
- Applications may span more than one priority area where scientifically justified.
- Research must meet the program’s requirements for scientific quality, relevance, feasibility, and potential impact.
Funding Details
- Investigator-Initiated Grants: Up to £500,000
- Duration: Up to 4 years
- Pilot and Feasibility Grants: Up to £60,000
- Pilot and Feasibility Duration: Up to 2 years
Deadline
- LOI Deadline: November 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM GMT
- Grant call opened: October 5, 2026, at 9:00 AM BST
- LOI outcome notifications: February 2027
- Final funding decisions: End of September 2027
Further Information
- Applicants should review the full guidelines and FAQs before submitting an LOI.
- WCRF Regular Grant Programme — official program page with the 2026–2027 priorities, funding levels, eligibility, deadlines, guidelines, and application information.
- WCRF Research Funding — information about WCRF’s wider cancer research funding activities.