Breast Cancer Research Foundation

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) is a nonprofit founded in 1993 and described as the largest private funder of breast cancer research worldwide. Alongside its grantmaking, it operates a venture philanthropy program that invests in breast cancer innovation. Its stated objective is to prevent and cure breast cancer by advancing promising research, with the organisation's view that research is essential to improving prevention and treatment and to reducing disparities.

Capital is deployed through two principal programmes. The Grants Program provides researchers with resources to pursue innovative ideas and to address the many aspects of breast cancer. The Metastasis Initiative is a multi-year international effort focused on understanding the biology of metastasis. Funding is raised through philanthropic donations, fundraising, events, and corporate partnerships; more than $1 billion has been raised since 1993. Awards reach scientists at universities and medical institutions across many countries, giving the foundation a geographic footprint that is international rather than concentrated in a single market.

Investment focus spans tumor biology, cancer genetics, cancer prevention, breast cancer treatment, metastasis biology, survivorship research, and oncology research more broadly. The organisation works across the research value chain - from basic biology to prevention, treatment, and long-term outcomes for patients - and invites individuals and organisations to participate through donations, fundraising, events, and corporate partnerships.