FINANCIAL SUPPORT

Introduction to Financial Support

The San Salvatore Foundation, founded on October 4, 1979, is dedicated to advancing research in cancer treatment and care. Our mission is to support scholars, especially those in Switzerland, who contribute significantly to the field of neoplastic diseases. This document outlines our grant application review process, ensuring fair and strategic allocation of funds to propel cancer research.

Evaluation Criteria

  1. Alignment with Strategic Priorities
    • Focus on transformative cancer research, from prevention to treatment.
    • Emphasis on cutting-edge projects with potential clinical applications.
    • Junior and independent researchers are prioritized.
  2. Comprehensive Portfolio Balance
    • Balanced representation across all cancer types, addressing unmet needs.
    • Encouragement of diverse treatment methodologies.
  3. Impact and Potential for Breakthroughs
    • Projects must demonstrate novelty and real-world applicability.
    • Clear alignment with the foundation’s mission for significant advancements.
  4. Merit and Scope
    • Evaluation based on scientific merit and methodological rigor.
    • Solid conceptual foundation and feasible implementation strategy required.
  5. Innovation and Creative Approaches
    • Funding for innovative solutions and novel methodologies in cancer research.
    • Proposals should depart from traditional paradigms.
  6. Expertise and Institutional Support
    • Proven expertise of the principal investigator and team.
    • Strong institutional support and autonomy are essential.

A panel of experts forming the Scientific Committee, will assess the applications, ensuring a comprehensive review across different cancer research domains. Usually, the total amount of money requested in an application should not exceed CHF 300’000.00.

Commitment to Diversity and Equity

The foundation strives for diverse and inclusive research funding, ensuring equitable distribution across cancer types and research domains. We support a varied group of researchers, including gender balance.

Ensuring Transparency and Integrity

Our process is transparent and integrity-driven, with strict conflict of interest policies. Reviewers disclose potential biases to ensure impartial assessments.

Deadline for submission is September 15, 2025.

The application must be written in English and submitted on the form provided, which has been adapted from the Swiss Cancer League.

The application should include:

A version of the Form in electronic format should be sent to the electronic address of the Foundation (see “Contacts”)

In addition to the form provided,

  • a cover letter,
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • list of publications
  • and an appropriate letter of support of the project with the estimated costs for stipends, apparatus and materials, etc.

should be attached not longer than 11 pages in length, to be sent either by normal mail and by e-mail.

The application will be evaluated by the Scientific Committee and approved or rejected by the Board of Directors of the San Salvatore Foundation.

Applicants granted awards by the San Salvatore Foundation must submit a final scientific and financial report to the Foundation. 

For downloading the Form, please visit the Section

“Application form”