Seed funding of up to $5,000 to empower early-career researchers advancing equity-focused innovations in cancer care across Africa, launched in honour of World Cancer Research Day.
The African Organization for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC) has launched its inaugural Microgrant Program, in partnership with Bio Usawa, Inc in an initiative that will provide seed funding for early-career African researchers working on health systems innovation in cancer care.
The program will offer grants of up to USD $5,000 to support novel, equity-focused ideas aimed at strengthening cancer care delivery across Africa.
The new program is in honour of World Cancer Research Day.
“On a day dedicated to cancer research worldwide, we are thrilled to invest in African innovation for African solutions. This program creates new opportunities for early-career researchers to lead the charge against cancer in their communities,” said Dr Miriam Mutebi, President of AORTIC.
The program aims to catalyse a new wave of evidence-based, Africa-led research to transform cancer care on the continent.
Dr. Menghis Bairu, Co-founder, President and CEO of Bio Usawa, added that “Bio Usawa is invested in building capacity in Africa and is committed to supporting local researchers to develop real world solutions for the gaps in care in our setting.”
About the Microgrant program
- Eligibility: Early-career researchers (within 5 years of completing their terminal degree), based in or affiliated with African institutions.
- Duration: 12 months (November 1, 2025 – October 31, 2026)
- Funding use: Project design, tools, small pilots, and materials (not for salaries, large equipment, or non-integral travel)
- Program management: Bio Usawa
Awardees will also be invited to present findings at AORTIC events and submit their research to the AORTIC Journal for publication consideration.
Key dates:
- Call for proposals opens: October 1, 2025
- Application deadline: October 15, 2025
- Award notification: November 1, 2025
- Project period: November 1, 2025 – October 31, 2026
Interested applicants are invited to submit:
- Research title and abstract (max 250 words)
- Project narrative (max 1,500 words)
- Budget with justification
- Timeline
- CV (max 2 pages)
Email applications to grants@aortic-africa.org
Subject line: AORTIC Microgrant Application – [Your Full Name]
Deadline: October 15, 2025 (11:59 PM GMT)