CLINICAL TRIALS

The Hecht Foundation invites investigator-initiated proposals for early-stage clinical trials (feasibility/pilot studies, phase I, phase II) with a primary focus on cancer. This program is designed to support innovative clinical research that addresses unmet medical needs and has the potential to improve patient outcomes.

Both single-centre and multi-centre clinical trial proposals are welcome. Applicants must provide evidence of ethics approval and/or Health Canada submission at the time of full proposal submission.

In 2026, the Hecht Foundation will award up to $1,000,000 CAD per project over a five-year period, with the possibility of extensions. For proposals requesting funding in excess of $1,000,000, applicants must demonstrate secured or pending co-funding at the time of submission.

All submissions must comply with the general eligibility requirements. In addition, clinical trial competition-specific eligibility may be found below.

The Foundation seeks to fund novel studies that investigate non-patentable molecules, substances, and treatment regimens which offer meaningful patient benefits but possess limited commercial appeal. Projects that fall outside traditional pharmaceutical development pathways are particularly encouraged.

Examples of eligible research topics include:

• Alternative surgical procedures
• Lifestyle and dietary interventions
• Over-the-counter medication for therapeutic or supportive purposes
• Drug repurposing initiatives
• Treatment regimens not yet adopted in Canada and where further validation studies are required
• Improvement of existing treatment modalities

Proposals must be grounded in extensive basic science evidence or, where basic science is not applicable, supported by comprehensive literature reviews. Only interventional projects are invited to this competition; the type of intervention can be quite broad, and the proposed outcomes may vary from prevention/diagnosis/treatment to improving the quality of life.

Qualitative studies focused primarily on socio-economic, psychological, or behavioral outcomes will not be considered under this funding program.

This funding stream will not support lead investigator salaries, large equipment, and overhead institutional expenses.

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