The European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA) has launched the 2026 calls for proposals under the EU’s EU Mission on Cancer, part of the Horizon Europe programme. The calls aim to fund collaborative research and innovation projects that address the full cancer pathway-from prevention and early detection to diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life-with the overarching goal of improving the lives of more than 3 million people by 2030.

The 2026 call includes seven thematic topics, such as virtual human twin models for cancer research, microbiome-based early prediction, clinical trials for immunotherapies, improved palliative care, mental health support for young survivors, capacity building, and improving quality of life for older cancer patients. These topics reflect a strong focus on innovative, patient-centred solutions and cross-sector collaboration in cancer care and research.

The call is open to eligible organisations (e.g. research institutions, universities, companies, and other stakeholders) forming international consortia. It follows a single-stage submission process, with a deadline of 15 September 2026 (17:00 CET), and proposals must be submitted via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal.

The call represents a major EU funding opportunity to support high-impact, collaborative projects that contribute to advancing cancer research, healthcare innovation, and patient well-being across Europe.