CARE Inaugural Plan -- 2017

The CARE Fund has released its Inaugural Plan, which includes its inaugural investment strategy in two funding areas and a proposed operating plan for the design, implementation, and administration of the CARE Fund. The grant programs were chosen through Board deliberation and represent high-impact strategies that can achieve the CARE Fund's objectives in creating a clear return on investment for Washingtonians. 

Distinguished Researchers. Top scientists move the research economy forward, creating laboratory and other jobs, raising awareness of cancer research, and bringing in additional research funding to the state. Recruitment at a mid- to senior level has a demonstrated return on investment in terms of job creation and additional funding.

The CARE Distinguished Researchers funding area will match Washington cancer research institutions and organizations up to $500,000 to fund recruitment packages that bring leading cancer researchers to Washington.

With the Distinguished Researchers program, Washington’s public investment creates a cross-disciplinary cadre where cancer research’s brightest thinkers can collaborate rather than compete across institutional lines.

Breakthrough Research. The Washington Cancer Breakthrough Fund creates the conditions for solving the toughest problems and most persistent barriers in cancer research. We seek projects that are truly transformational, demonstrate a unique perspective, and, if successful, would have a tremendous impact on the cancer research field in Washington and nationally. To do so, the Fund will match contributions of a partnership or collaborative solving a critical problem or achieving a breakthrough, allowing them to double-down on their best ideas.

In the inaugural year, the Fund seeks proposals describing research focused on novel approaches with the potential for extended impact. The breakthrough fund is designed for researchers and collaborators to spark new approaches to cancer research that can translate to Washington jobs and additional research funding. Eligible applicants can range from universities, research institutions, and for-profit companies, to hospitals and clinics, and nonprofits in the state of Washington.