Skip to content

Our impact

The Cancer Research Society (CRS) is a recognized leader in funding cancer research in Canada.

Supporting research

Founded in 1945, the CRS is one of the only Canadian philanthropic organizations entirely dedicated to funding research on all types of cancer.

Research is the key

The CRS supports thousands of researchers who have made significant advances in the three essential areas of research:

Prevention

The complexity and variety of cancer causes are impressive. Preventing cancer involves understanding and managing risk factors such as genetics, lifestyle like smoking and diet, as well as exposure to carcinogenic substances in the environment. Research aims to anticipate these risks before cancer develops.

Detection

Cancer can spread rapidly. Therefore, it is essential to implement high-quality early screening methods to subsequently establish appropriate treatments for patients, giving them the best possible chances. Research plays a crucial role in improving existing diagnostic tools and developing new, less invasive, and more effective technologies.

Treatment

Significant progress has been made in recent years, leading to the development of new treatments, notably targeted or personalized therapies. Although treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are still used, researchers are trying to find less aggressive and more suitable ways of effectively treating cancer.

An Impact for cancer research

$388 MILLION SINCE 1945

For over 75 years, the CRS has awarded research grants and scholarships, demonstrating its crucial role in the advancement of cancer research in Canada. The CRS adopts a comprehensive approach by funding the entire spectrum of research, including fundamental, translational, and clinical research. This support reinforces our commitment to funding innovative and promising projects, demonstrating our determination to outsmart cancer.

$15 MILLION INVESTED IN 2023-2024  

Each year, the CRS receives a significant number of grant applications, highlighting the urgency and necessity of actively supporting research. In 2023-2024, we responded to this demand by awarding a record number of 260 grants through our various annual and targeted programs. Our research investment for 2024-2025 will be announced this fall.

Our COMMITMENT

Fund some of the most promising research projects through our various programs.

OPERATING GRANTS

AWARDED TO 83 RESEARCHERS IN 2023
Operating Grants support fundamental and translational research on all types of cancer, enabling advances in the prevention, detection, and treatment of this disease.

NEXT GENERATION OF SCIENTISTS AWARDS

AWARDED TO 5 SCIENTISTS IN 2023
These grants support the most promising postdoctoral fellows in establishing their laboratories and carrying out their own cancer research projects. This program is a real opportunity for the start of their careers, and contributes actively to the training of the next generation of cancer researchers in Canada.

DOCTORAL RESEARCH AWARDS

AWARDED TO 21 DOCTORAL STUDENTS IN 2023
This program aims to support and encourage doctoral students conducting cancer research at a Canadian university. The scholarships provided allow them to focus exclusively on their research work, benefiting from crucial financial support for their academic and professional training.

Targeted programs

Through scientific partnerships, major donations and other initiatives, the CRS occasionally launches targeted programs to award grants in specific areas of research, such as rare or specific types of cancer, and to address particular scientific issues.

Evaluation committee

For each program, the CRS implements a peer review process to determine which research projects will be funded.

Every year, nearly 100 researchers, clinicians, and physicians rigorously and voluntarily evaluate grant applications received. This process ensures that each funded research project is carefully selected, considering its relevance, feasibility, and potential to advance cancer research.

Why give

Cancer remains the leading cause of mortality in Canada, but we can change these statistics. Thanks to research, significant advancements have been made, improving treatments and increasing survival rates in many cases. Your donation directly supports this crucial research.

CANCER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR NEARLY ONE-THIRD OF ALL DEATHS IN CANADA

APPROXIMATELY 1 IN 2 CANADIANS WILL BE DIAGNOSED WITH CANCER DURING THEIR LIFETIME

EVERY 3 MINUTES, 1 PERSON RECEIVES A DIAGNOSIS OF CANCER

Make a Difference Today

By making a donation today, you empower us to support a greater number of impactful research projects across all types of cancer! Your contribution brings hope for a better future to more individuals and families affected by this disease.

Learn more

Impact report
Explore our achievements and all financial information surrounding our operations.
Learn more
Financial statements
You can obtain more information about our financial management by reviewing our financial statements.
Learn more