Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Cancer Focus Fund is an oncology-focused investment fund established in collaboration with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Launched in November 2019, the fund is based in Houston, Texas, and aims to redefine funding and support for promising cancer therapies. The partnership with MD Anderson, a leading cancer research institution, provides unique access to clinical trials and scientific expertise, enhancing the fund's ability to support innovative cancer treatments.
The fund operates with a high-conviction, concentrated portfolio strategy, focusing on late preclinical through Phase I and Phase Ib/II clinical stage oncology assets. Cancer Focus Fund is designed to facilitate the development of first-in-class drugs that are ready to advance into clinical trials, particularly in the fields of immunotherapies, CAR-T cell therapies, precision medicine, and radiotherapeutics.
As of now, the fund has a target check size range of $200 million to $250 million, with a commitment to invest in over 30 trials. This strategic approach allows the fund to provide not only capital but also essential business, management, and regulatory support to its portfolio companies.
Cancer Focus Fund invests in first-in-class drugs that are poised to advance into clinical trials, specifically targeting oncology therapies. The fund's investment strategy encompasses a range of sectors, including biotech and healthcare, with a particular emphasis on immunotherapies, CAR-T cell therapies, precision medicine, and radiotherapeutics. The fund is agnostic regarding the geographical origin of the therapies, focusing instead on novel approaches to cancer treatment that demonstrate significant potential.
Investment stages range from pre-seed to growth equity, with check sizes typically between $4 million and $7 million per investment. This funding is often sufficient for several Phase Ib proof-of-concept expansion arms. The fund's partnership with MD Anderson allows it to leverage access to clinical trials and a scientific advisory committee that meets quarterly to review drug candidates, ensuring rigorous scientific diligence.
Cancer Focus Fund seeks to identify and support innovative therapies that are at or nearing FDA Phase 1 human clinical trials. The fund's focus on late preclinical through Phase I and Phase Ib/II clinical stage oncology assets positions it as a critical player in the oncology investment landscape.
Cancer Focus Fund's portfolio includes eight notable companies, each contributing to the advancement of cancer therapies:
This diverse portfolio reflects the fund's commitment to supporting innovative solutions in cancer treatment, with a focus on therapies that are ready to advance through clinical trials.
Ross P. Barrett: Managing Partner with extensive experience in oncology investments and a background in venture capital.
Jonathan Fassberg: Member of the Investment Committee, contributing insights from his experience in the healthcare sector.
David R. Epstein: Advisor with a strong background in oncology and drug development.
Michael Margolis: Capital Markets Advisor, providing expertise in financial strategies for healthcare investments.
Jennifer P. Pou: Principal, focusing on identifying and supporting promising oncology therapies.
Hector Alila, D.V.M. Ph.D.: Venture Partner with a deep understanding of clinical research and drug development.
Jaime Aguirre: Advisor with experience in oncology investments and strategic partnerships.
Avery Green: Investor Relations Analyst, managing communications and relationships with portfolio companies and investors.
To pitch Cancer Focus Fund, founders should utilize the investor portal available on their website. It is important to include comprehensive details in the pitch deck, such as the drug's mechanism of action, clinical trial readiness, and market potential. Response times may vary, but founders can expect feedback within a few weeks of submission.
Cancer Focus Fund II is a notable program that aims to invest in over 30 trials with a target of $200-250 million. This program focuses on therapies that are at or nearing FDA Phase 1 human clinical trials, providing essential business, management, and regulatory support to ensure successful development.
Eligibility for participation in Cancer Focus Fund II includes companies developing innovative oncology therapies that align with the fund's investment thesis. Interested parties can apply through the fund's investor portal, where they can submit their proposals for consideration.
On April 25, 2026, Cancer Focus Fund announced its commitment to invest in over 30 trials, targeting a total investment of $200-250 million. This initiative aims to support therapies that are at or nearing FDA Phase 1 human clinical trials.
In recent months, the fund has actively engaged with its portfolio companies, providing business and regulatory support to enhance their clinical trial readiness. The partnership with MD Anderson continues to be a significant advantage, allowing the fund to facilitate access to critical resources and expertise in oncology.
Additionally, Cancer Focus Fund has been featured in various industry publications, highlighting its unique approach to oncology investments and the impact of its portfolio companies on cancer treatment advancements.
What are the investment criteria for Cancer Focus Fund?
Cancer Focus Fund invests in first-in-class oncology therapies that are ready to advance into clinical trials. The fund focuses on late preclinical through Phase I and Phase Ib/II clinical stage assets, particularly in immunotherapies, CAR-T cell therapies, precision medicine, and radiotherapeutics.
How can founders apply or pitch to Cancer Focus Fund?
Founders interested in pitching to Cancer Focus Fund should prepare a detailed presentation that outlines their therapy's potential, clinical trial readiness, and alignment with the fund's investment focus. Direct submissions through the investor portal are encouraged.
What makes Cancer Focus Fund different from other venture capital firms?
The defining edge of Cancer Focus Fund is its partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center, which provides access to clinical trial slots, a world-class scientific advisory committee, and credibility with oncology management teams globally.
What is the geographic scope of Cancer Focus Fund's investments?
The fund is agnostic regarding the geographical origin of the therapies it invests in, focusing instead on the innovation and potential impact of the treatments.
What kind of support does Cancer Focus Fund provide to its portfolio companies?
Cancer Focus Fund offers business, management, and regulatory support, leveraging its partnership with MD Anderson to facilitate access to clinical trials and scientific expertise, which is crucial for the development of oncology therapies.
What is the typical check size for investments made by Cancer Focus Fund?
The fund typically invests between $4 million and $7 million per company, which is generally sufficient for several Phase Ib proof-of-concept expansion arms.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.