Request for Applications (RFA)

Big Hope Little Warrior Cancer Foundation

Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Grants

The Big Hope Little Warrior Cancer Foundation is pleased to announce a Request

for Applications (RFA) for one-year research grants focused on advancing the

understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of pediatric brain tumors. This funding

opportunity is open to researchers and clinicians who are committed to improving

outcomes for children affected by these devastating diseases.

Objective

The goal of this RFA is to support innovative, high-impact research that addresses

critical gaps in pediatric brain tumor biology, diagnostics, therapeutics, or patient care.

Proposals should aim to translate scientific discoveries into meaningful improvements

for children battling brain tumors.

Funding Details

 Award Amount: Up to $25,000 per project.

 Project Duration: One year.

 Eligible Costs: Direct costs only. No indirect costs (F&A) are allowed.

 Allowable Expenses: Salaries, supplies, equipment, and other direct research

expenses.

Eligibility

 Applicants must hold a PhD, MD, or equivalent degree.

 Researchers at academic institutions, hospitals, and non-profit research

organizations are eligible to apply.

 Early-career investigators are strongly encouraged to apply.

Research Focus Areas

Proposals should align with the mission of the Big Hope Little Warrior Cancer

Foundation and address one or more of the following areas:

1. Tumor Biology: Mechanisms driving pediatric brain tumor initiation, progression,

or metastasis.

2. Therapeutic Development: Preclinical or clinical studies of novel therapies,

including targeted therapies, immunotherapies, or drug repurposing.

3. Diagnostics and Biomarkers: Development of non-invasive diagnostic tools or

biomarkers for early detection, prognosis, or treatment response.

4. Patient Outcomes: Studies focused on improving quality of life, reducing

treatment-related toxicity, or addressing survivorship issues.

Application Requirements

1. Proposal Summary (1 page):

o Title, hypothesis, specific aims, and significance of the proposed research.

o Clear statement of how the project aligns with the foundation’s mission.

2. Budget and Justification (1 page):

o Detailed budget outlining how the $25,000 will be used.

o Justification for each budget item.

3. CV/Resume (2 pages maximum):

o Include relevant publications, research experience, and accomplishments.

4. Letter of Support (Optional):

o From the applicant’s institution or department chair, confirming support for

the project and the applicant’s ability to carry out the proposed work.

Submission Process

 Applications must be submitted as a single PDF file

to bighopelittlewarrior@gmail.com.

Review Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on:

 Scientific Merit: Innovation, feasibility, and potential impact.

 Alignment with Foundation Goals: Relevance to pediatric brain tumors and

potential to improve patient outcomes.

 Investigator Qualifications: Track record and ability to successfully complete

the proposed work.

Timeline

 Application Deadline: February 14, 2025

 Award Notification: February 21, 2025

 Project Start Date: March 1, 2025

Contact Information

For questions or additional information, please contact:

Jingyi Chen, bighopelittlewarrior@gmail.com.