Next Steps Program

MRA is excited to announce a new funding opportunity called Next Steps, a separate and distinct grant mechanism from the MRA’s annual RFP.

One Request for Proposals (RFP) will be released in 2026:

• Preclinical/Clinical Advancement of Cellular and Vaccine Therapies for Acral and Uveal Melanoma: The goal of this RFP is to accelerate the development of new approaches and technologies in cellular therapy and vaccine therapy for acral and/or uveal melanoma. Proposals on GNAQ/11 related melanomas are also allowed. This RFP will support preclinical, pre-IND development stage, and clinical-stage studies focused on advancing cellular or vaccine-based therapeutic approaches that have the potential to improved treatment strategies for patients with acral or uveal melanoma.

Awards through the Next Steps Program will be granted as milestone-based payments. Submitted applications will require the research proposal, budget, and a clearly defined milestone plan and timeline. Funding levels range from $50,000 – $1,000,000 (specified in each Next Step priority area announcement) with study duration of 1-3 years. Researchers from academic medical centers and universities are eligible to apply, including institutions in the U.S. and worldwide.

Announcements of this program will be made via email and on the MRA website. If you have any questions please contact Dr. Sara DiNapoli, MRA's Director, Scientific Programs at sdinapoli@curemelanoma.org.