Focus Fund Five Application

The Focus Fund is an oncology-focused venture capital fund that invests in technologies, assets and companies that are at or nearing FDA Phase 1 human clinical trials. Its aim is to support selected trials and assets that can conduct clinical studies at MD Anderson, while helping advance breakthrough biomedical technologies that improve cancer treatment, supportive care and, ultimately, lead toward cancer cures.

Please read this PDF for instructions before applying. Then fill out the form below and upload your presentation as a PowerPoint file.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cancer Focus Fund?

Cancer Focus Fund is an oncology-focused investment fund that invests in compelling cancer therapies at or near the FDA Phase I or II human clinical trial regimen. The fund offers business, management, IP, clinical, scientific, and regulatory support through experienced professionals. We invest in promising therapies in late preclinical development through Phase I and Phase Ib/II clinical trials, with the goal of accelerating development alongside the clinical trial expertise and infrastructure of MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Is Cancer Focus Fund similar to a grant?

No. Cancer Focus Fund does not offer grants. It is a venture capital fund managed by investment professionals.

Why is MD Anderson doing this?

MD Anderson has recognized that many innovative therapies — especially those addressing high unmet medical need outside major tumor types — are not adequately investigated, primarily due to lack of capital. Cancer Focus Fund was established to secure funding for meritorious agents where compelling preclinical translational data supports further clinical development.

What is the typical investment criteria?

A typical investment will meet the following criteria:

  • Oncology therapeutic-focused trial

  • Phase Ia or Ib trial starting within 8–12 months

  • Trial designed by, or in collaboration with, MD Anderson investigators and conducted primarily at MD Anderson

What is the typical investment size?

The typical investment is between $4–7 million USD, which is generally sufficient for several Phase Ib proof-of-concept expansion arms. Investment size is based on the trial budget.

What does the fund receive in return for its investment?

The fund typically receives equity in the asset owner and downstream economics tied to the asset being tested, including a percentage of licensing consideration, regulatory and sales milestones, and/or royalties on net sales.

What does the fund NOT cover?

The fund covers only costs incurred at MD Anderson. It does not cover CROs, internal company costs, GMP costs, or combination therapy drugs that are not considered standard of care.

What is the selection and qualification process?

  1. Complete our Expression of Interest (EOI) form — accepted on a rolling basis

  2. The Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) reviews EOIs and invites selected companies to apply

  3. Invited applicants submit a Focus Five Application, Focus Five Slide Deck, and a 3-way CDA (between the asset owner, MD Anderson, and Cancer Focus Fund)

  4. MD Anderson scientifically evaluates each asset and makes recommendations to the Investment Committee

  5. After full technical, corporate, and IP diligence, the Investment Committee votes to fund the program

If selected, what is required of the asset owner?

The asset owner must be willing to have MD Anderson Key Opinion Leaders design and lead the clinical trial. Trials are ideally single-site at MD Anderson, though in most cases the asset owner retains the ability to determine the exit strategy if trials are successful (e.g., in-house development, out-licensing, assignment, etc.).

How long does it take to receive feedback after submission?

  • After EOI submission: typically 3–4 weeks

  • After full application: approximately 5–7 weeks from the submission deadline. We will reach out if additional information is needed during scientific review.

Will there be an opportunity to expand the trial beyond MD Anderson?

Yes. If expansion is deemed in the best interest of the trial, it will first extend to Ochsner Health and/or LSU Health Shreveport. Further expansion to other sites will be considered as appropriate. Trial design occurs at MD Anderson and must be adhered to at all additional sites.

Is there a formal partnership between MD Anderson, Cancer Focus Fund, Ochsner, and LSU Health Shreveport?

Yes. Ochsner Health and LSU Health Shreveport are the sole preferred Phase I partners for cohort expansion. This partnership provides access to an expanded patient population, clinical trial efficiencies through preferred relationships, and increased geographic reach.

When are the application deadlines?

Expressions of Interest are accepted on a rolling basis. Application deadlines (following EOI acceptance) are:

  • Cohort 22: November 14, 2025

  • Cohort 23: March 6, 2026

  • Cohort 24: July 3, 2026

  • Cohort 25: November 6, 2026

Dates are subject to change — please confirm the deadline prior to submission.