Annual Sarcoma Research Grant Program

Geographic Scope: North Carolina (invited institutions)

Focus Areas:

• High-risk or under-researched sarcoma types
• Novel diagnostics or treatments
• Patient outcomes and quality of life
• Multi-institution collaboration and national funding potential
• Sarcoma research broadly

Eligible Applicants:

• Leading research institutions across North Carolina, including:
  • Atrium's Levine Cancer Institute
  • Levine Children's Hospital
  • Duke University
  • University of North Carolina (UNC)
  • Wake Forest University

Overview:
The Paula Takacs Foundation invites leading research institutions across North Carolina to submit sarcoma research proposals annually through a competitive grant process. Proposals are reviewed by an independent Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) composed of leading sarcoma researchers and clinicians from across North Carolina. The SAC evaluates proposals for merit, innovation, and patient impact. Recommendations are then presented to the Board of Directors for final funding approval.

Recent Awards:

• 2023: $300,000 (largest in foundation history)
• 2022: $275,000
• Historical total invested in research: $2.7+ million

Mission Context:
The foundation funds bold, patient-focused research to improve diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes for sarcoma patients. Sarcoma is a rare cancer that comprises just 1% of adult cancers and 15-20% of pediatric cancers. With limited federal funding, progress depends on community-driven investments.

Application Process

2025 Grant Timeline:

1. RFP Released: September 5, 2025
2. Proposal Deadline: November 1, 2025
3. Review Period: November–December 2025
4. Awards Announced: January 2026 at Champions Celebration

Proposal Review Process:

1. Institutions submit proposals during open RFP period
2. Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) evaluates all proposals for:
   • Scientific merit
   • Innovation potential
   • Patient impact
   • Feasibility
3. SAC provides recommendations to Board of Directors
4. Board of Directors makes final funding decisions
5. Award announcements made at Champions Celebration event

Application Materials:
Specific application materials and submission format not detailed in available pages. Contact foundation directly for RFP and detailed submission requirements.

Scientific Advisory Committee:
Proposals are evaluated by an independent Scientific Advisory Committee composed of leading sarcoma researchers and clinicians from across North Carolina, ensuring objective, rigorous, and patient-impact-focused review.