Hope Foundation for Cancer Research

The Hope Foundation for Cancer Research, a registered UK charity (number 1091480), is a dedicated independent funder established to advance cancer prevention, treatment, and eradication through targeted support for research infrastructure and initiatives in Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland. Rooted in community engagement, innovation, and collaboration with local clinical and academic partners, it emphasises transparency, scientific excellence, and direct patient benefits. Governed by trustees with medical, academic, and business expertise, the foundation uniquely positions itself as the primary independent supporter of Leicester's cancer research ecosystem, bridging research and real-world patient care while complementing national charities.

It prioritises cancer research across types, funding pilot projects, early-phase studies, fellowships, clinician/researcher career development, research personnel like nurses, clinical trials enhancements, and infrastructure such as the Hope Clinical Trials Facility at Leicester Royal Infirmary. Beneficiaries include local cancer patients, NHS research communities, and the cancer care workforce, with grants enabling high-potential, under-resourced ideas that improve diagnostics, therapies, outcomes, and training.

Eligible applicants are limited to established academic institutions, NHS Trusts, and universities in Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland; it supports medium-to-large research entities with significant cancer programmes and accepts only requests via formal partnerships—no unsolicited applications. Typical grants range from £10,000 for pilots to £500,000+ for capital/multi-year projects (e.g., £1.3m for trials centre expansion), reviewed biannually by the Research Advisory Panel without open deadlines or forms.

Exclusions encompass general core costs, unrestricted support, emergency relief, community groups, or non-local/non-research activities. Distinctively, it champions investigator-led innovation, workforce capacity, and patient-facing advancements in a regionally focused, pragmatic manner.