UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center Community Grants

The University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer Center Community Grants program is administered by the University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer Center, one of a limited number of designated cancer centers in the United States. The center emphasizes not only advanced research and patient care but also a strong commitment to reducing cancer burden through prevention, early detection, and survivorship. The Community Grants Program reflects this mission by investing in community-driven initiatives that leverage local expertise, relationships, and innovation to address cancer-related disparities across the Cancer Center catchment area. Beginning with the 2026 funding cycle, the program transitions to a Catalyst to Impact Model designed to support organizations at varying stages of readiness. The 2026 cycle specifically focuses on the Impact Grant, which is intended for projects that are already developed and ready for implementation. These projects must demonstrate the ability to carry out planned activities, evaluate outcomes, and sustain impact over time. The program anticipates expanding funding opportunities in future years to support earlier-stage activities such as planning, partnership development, and program design. The primary purpose of the Impact Grant is to support community-based efforts that reduce cancer burden through evidence-based strategies. Funded projects are expected to address cancer health promotion, prevention, early detection, risk factors, or survivorship. Applicants must propose initiatives grounded in proven practices and tailored to the needs of populations within the defined service area. The grant prioritizes innovative approaches that reflect community knowledge and directly contribute to improved cancer outcomes. Funding for the 2026 cycle includes up to three awards, each totaling twenty thousand dollars distributed over a twenty four month project period. Funds are provided in two annual installments of ten thousand dollars. The program limits submissions to one application per organization, ensuring broad access to funding opportunities. While specific restrictions on allowable expenses are not explicitly detailed, funded projects are expected to align with implementation, evaluation, and sustainability goals outlined in the program guidance. Eligibility is restricted to organizations that serve residents within the University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer Center catchment area. Applicants must be registered nonprofit organizations with 501 c 3 status or municipalities. The program welcomes a wide range of applicants including community based organizations, advocacy groups, faith based institutions, neighborhood committees, local governments, academic institutions, and hospitals, including those serving underserved populations. Both new and existing partnerships are encouraged to apply. The application process begins with a required Letter of Intent, which opens on July 1, 2026. Applicants must submit their Letter of Intent through an online portal by July 31, 2026 at twelve pm Eastern Time. Selected applicants will be notified by August 7, 2026 and invited to submit a full proposal by September 8, 2026. Applicants are encouraged to review detailed guidance materials prior to submission to ensure alignment with eligibility, project requirements, and evaluation criteria. Proposals are evaluated based on their use of evidence based practices, readiness for implementation, organizational capacity, clarity of the project plan, strength of partnerships, and plans for evaluation and long term sustainability. The program also provides a contact email for inquiries, allowing applicants to seek clarification regarding project readiness and fit. The structured timeline and staged application process ensure that only well prepared and impactful projects advance to full proposal consideration.

Ensure project demonstrates implementation readiness with clear plan, strong partnerships, and evidence based methods aligned to cancer prevention and survivorship priorities