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The European Commission’s (EC) Horizon Europe Missions Work Programme 2026–2027 sets out six new funding opportunities under the EU Cancer Mission for 2027, with a combined indicative budget of €115.32 million. From identifying novel therapeutic targets to improving equitable access to cancer care, these call topics support research and innovation that can deliver tangible benefits for patients and healthcare systems. With the official Work Programme published and the call opening on 10 February 2027, now is the time to explore which funding opportunity best aligns with your expertise, identify potential consortium partners and start shaping a competitive proposal for submission by 16 September 2027.

Six call topics in 2027: what applicants need to know

The six topics under HORIZON-MISS-2027-02 address different priorities, from understanding cancer biology and developing treatments to improving healthcare delivery and quality of life. Each targets distinct research challenges and types of applicants.

• HORIZON-MISS-2027-02-CANCER-01 focuses on understanding tumour heterogeneity and identifying novel therapeutic targets through functional genomics. Particular attention is given to paediatric and adolescent cancers, rare cancers, refractory cancers and cancers with limited treatment options. Projects are expected to combine experimental research with advanced analysis of multimodal patient data.
• HORIZON-MISS-2027-02-CANCER-02 supports innovative diagnostic and treatment programmes for lung, bowel, breast or prostate cancer. Comprehensive Cancer Infrastructures must collaborate across at least four countries, including one with less developed cancer infrastructure, to improve access to innovative cancer care and reduce inequalities.
• HORIZON-MISS-2027-02-CANCER-03 funds phase 1 clinical trials, including first-in-human studies, for biomarker-guided medicines or multimodal treatments targeting rare or very rare cancers. The focus is on generating early safety and efficacy evidence while improving treatment opportunities for patients with limited therapeutic options.
• HORIZON-MISS-2027-02-CANCER-04 addresses inequalities in cancer care through health-economics research, health systems research and outcomes research. Projects should generate evidence to improve cost-effectiveness, healthcare organisation and equitable access to cancer control programmes across different European healthcare settings.
• HORIZON-MISS-2027-02-CANCER-05 supports joint pre-commercial procurement of affordable cancer technologies, medical devices and medicines. Consortia of healthcare procurers will drive the development and validation of innovative solutions, with clinical validation, piloting or upscaling taking place in at least five countries.
• HORIZON-MISS-2027-02-CANCER-06 aims to strengthen research addressing the quality of life of young cancer survivors. The call supports cooperation between cancer charities and funding agencies to develop a coordinated research programme focused on the long-term needs of young people living with and beyond cancer.

What applicants should prioritise

Across the six topics, strong proposals should:

• Demonstrate a clear contribution to the topic-specific expected outcomes.
• Include the clinical, scientific and implementation expertise required by the selected topic.
• Integrate patient and caregiver participation where specified.
• Plan for FAIR data, European research infrastructures and UNCAN.eu where required.
• Allocate resources for collaboration within the relevant Cancer Mission project clusters.
• For topics involving clinical studies, applicants should also prepare the dedicated clinical study annex.