ASPIRE Awards

About this program

The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research’s ASPIRE Awards fund innovative, high-risk, high-reward cancer research addressing feasibility and proof-of-concept questions, from basic and translational science to innovative technologies and early-stage clinical research. Standard ASPIRE I awards provide up to $250,000 for 12 months or less, while ASPIRE II awards provide up to $750,000 for up to 36 months; larger limits may apply to clinical studies. Applications are open worldwide, collaborations are permitted, and principal investigators must be independent researchers at their institutions. Proposals are accepted through focused requests for proposals or by invitation, with selection based on scientific merit and potential impact; indirect costs may not exceed 10% of direct costs.