DoW Breast Cancer, Breakthrough Award Level 3

The FY26 Breast Cancer Research Program (BCRP) Breakthrough Award Level 3 (HT942526BCRPBTA3) is a funding opportunity from the Defense Health Agency designed to support advanced translational studies with high potential for breakthroughs in breast cancer. The program focuses on research that addresses overarching BCRP challenges and provides a realistic timeline for near-term clinical application. Funding is approximately 12.6 million dollars, intended to support about two awards with a maximum performance period of four years. Cost caps are set at 5.6 million dollars for single Principal Investigator (PI) applications and 7.0 million dollars for Partnering PI Option (PPIO) applications. Small-scale clinical trials, such as phase 1/1b, are permitted but not required. Eligible applicants must be registered and active in SAM.gov, eBRAP.org, and Grants.gov. A critical requirement for the research team is the inclusion of two or more breast cancer consumer advocates. The application process is a two-step sequence, with pre-applications due by June 12, 2026, and full applications due by September 30, 2026. Awards are determined through a two-tier review process consisting of a peer review for technical merit and a programmatic review for relevance to BCRP priorities. Key submission requirements include a lay abstract, a statement of work, an impact statement, and a post-award transition plan. Additionally, all key personnel must disclose foreign affiliations in accordance with National Security Presidential Memorandum-33.