Philanthropy

Our scientists have been working at the cutting edge of cancer research for more than 100 years. Discoveries made in our labs have saved lives all over the world – progress made possible thanks to philanthropy and our generous community of donors.

Yet cancer is still one of the greatest challenges we face. With more than 1,000 people in the UK facing a new diagnosis each day, the need for innovation and bold ideas has never been greater.

Philanthropic support can make this happen. It accelerates the pace and widens the scope of our research, providing vital funding that is not available elsewhere.

Together, we can deliver the next generation of breakthroughs – advancing new cancer treatments and bringing hope to patients.

Get in touch with our team

Powerful ways you could make an impact:

  • Invest in the future leaders of cancer research: Support the best and brightest PhD students, helping us train the next generation of cancer scientists
  • Drive forward new discoveries: Fund research into a particular cancer and turn groundbreaking science into cutting-edge therapies
  • Kickstart innovation: Provide seed funding for a pilot study, which could leverage a large project grant
  • Offer flexibility with an unrestricted gift: Your generous donation will be used wherever it is most needed

Rhonda's story

Rhonda Ryan and her husband Sean

"Imagine the difference we could make if we all came together to fund cancer research"

Rhonda Ryan was diagnosed with lobular breast cancer in 2019. Two years later, she was told her cancer had spread to her liver and was incurable. An experienced investment professional, Rhonda is now calling on her industry contacts to support our vital research, hoping to raise £1.8m over six years and make a real difference for the next generation of cancer patients. 

Read Rhonda's full story

How we work with philanthropists

A personal gift of £10,000 or above could have a transformative impact on the future of cancer research, powering the science that will lead to new treatments and more hopeful outcomes for patients.

Our expert Philanthropy Team will support you throughout, including:

Reception

Invitations to ICR events

Exclusive receptions where you’ll hear first-hand from our scientists about the latest breakthroughs

Scientist in a lab

Laboratory tours

Visit our cutting-edge research facilities and meet the teams working at the forefront of discovery

Impact report

Bespoke impact reports

Regular updates on how your gift is advancing cancer research

 

The ICR is a powerhouse of drug discovery, offering world-class postgraduate education in cancer research and treatment. Our discoveries, such as the lifesaving drug abiraterone, are enabling cancer patients to live longer and better. But the disease is still claiming too many lives. Your support could help us continue to make the discoveries that defeat cancer. 

Meet our Philanthropy team

Hannah Joyce

Deputy Director of Philanthropy

+44 207 153 5298

Email Hannah

Donna Heenan

Head of Major Gifts

+44 203 437 6399

Email Donna

Sirena Neaves

Philanthropy Officer

+44 203 437 6749

Email Sirena

Ways you can give

There are many ways you can make a philanthropic gift, and we’d be delighted to discuss the options with you.

  • A multi-year gift is one of the most effective ways to support our mission. It provides reliable funding, strengthens our planning, and ensures your generosity has lasting impact
  • A single donation can help us be agile and adapt to changing needs
  • Use of giving vehicles such as donor-advised funds (DAF) can be tax and resource efficient
  • For qualifying donations, using Gift Aid will maximise the impact of your support
  • Leaving a gift in your Will is a powerful way to help drive the discoveries of tomorrow

How you can support us from overseas

We would be delighted to speak with you about your philanthropic aims, and discuss how you can enjoy the tax benefits on your donation available in your country of residence:

  • US tax-payers and foundations wishing to support the ICR can give tax efficiently through CAF America, a US 501 (c) (3) charity (US tax ID no 43-1634280).