NOT-CA-24-010: Upcoming NIH Funding for Pediatric Cancer Cell Therapy Network

The National Institutes of Health (NIH), through the National Cancer Institute (NCI), has announced its intent to publish a funding opportunity under the number NOT-CA-24-010. This opportunity will focus on establishing the pediatric arm of the Cancer Adoptive Cellular Therapy (Can-ACT) Network. The primary goal of this initiative is to advance new cell therapy strategies for clinical testing in the treatment of solid tumors in pediatric cancer patients (18 years or younger). The funding, classified under health with a specific focus on cancer treatment research, aims to support innovative approaches to preclinical and translational studies that can lead to clinical trials.

Eligibility for this funding opportunity is broad, encompassing various entities such as educational institutions, government bodies, non-profits, and private sector organizations. The forthcoming Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) will specifically solicit UG3/UH3 applications to expand the Can-ACT Network’s efforts to pediatric cancers, complementing its work on adult tumors. The network will facilitate novel and collaborative approaches to developing new cell therapy products. With an estimated total program funding of $1,500,000, this initiative represents a significant step in enhancing cancer treatment options for pediatric patients. The expected publication of the NOFO in January 2023 and the application due date in March 2024 provide ample time for potential applicants to prepare responsive grant applications, marking a crucial opportunity in the field of pediatric oncology research and treatment.