Over the past decade, reduced federal funding has proven devastating to the cancer research enterprise. Promising lines of research go unfunded and unexplored; bright young investigators are choosing other career paths; international researchers are returning to their countries of origin; and many clinical trials have closed. The AACR Foundation for the Prevention and Cure of Cancer seeks to close this gap, providing researchers with the necessary funds to continue their vital work.

The Foundation directly funds research that may take us to the brink of a cure for cancer. Through a variety of scientific programs, the Foundation directs the donations of altruistic individuals, corporations and other foundations to where they are needed most: the laboratories of scientists who are making the most important discoveries in the fight against cancer. Through the generosity of our donors, the AACR funds promising research grant proposals and supports young investigators as they establish and develop their cancer research careers. The Foundation's mission is clearly demonstrated by its support of scientists at all levels, especially in the transition from student to fellow to independent researcher.

Support for the next generation of cancer researchers provides a stable base for the AACR Foundation's ongoing operating budget, including the broad array of scientific and educational programs that the AACR develops annually. In the past 10 years alone, support for the AACR Scholar-in-Training Awards has made it possible for more than 4,000 junior scientists to attend Annual Meetings and other AACR Special Conferences. Additionally, the AACR Foundation gives back to its institutional supporters by hosting events such as the Industry Roundtable, which provides scientists and executives a forum in which to exchange ideas while helping AACR accelerate progress against cancer.

Through its scientific meetings and scholarly journals, and a host of other programs, the AACR Foundation and our donors will continue to play a pivotal role in facilitating scientific advancement and accelerating progress against cancer.

Mission Statement

The AACR Foundation for the Prevention and Cure of Cancer accelerates progress in the conquest of cancer by providing financial support for scientific research, education and communication. The Foundation funds programs deemed by the American Association for Cancer Research to be of the highest priority and impact.

Vision Statement

The leadership of the AACR Foundation for the Prevention and Cure of Cancer envisions a healthier world, free of death and suffering due to cancer, resulting from ongoing scientific advancement.

Goals and Objectives

To accelerate progress against cancer, the AACR Foundation focuses on the following goals:

• Research Leadership: Advance science in the search for innovative approaches to the conquest of cancer
• Scientific Education: Educate and train current and future generations of cancer researchers
• Public Communication: Enhance the public's understanding of cancer and cancer research through state-of-the-art communications