The Department of Defense (DOD) Breast Cancer Research Program (BCRP) Breakthrough Award Level 3 is a funding initiative managed by the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP) through the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command. Initiated in FY92, the BCRP is committed to ending breast cancer for Service Members, Veterans, and the broader public. With a FY25 appropriation of $130 million, this program encourages innovative, high-impact research that aligns with one or more of its overarching challenges aimed at significantly advancing breast cancer understanding and treatment.

This funding opportunity specifically supports advanced translational studies and permits small-scale clinical trials, though such trials are not mandatory. Research must be backed by available data, human samples, or critical reagents and should propose a clear, feasible timeline for near-term clinical application. Proposals must include two or more breast cancer consumer advocates, actively engaged throughout the research process. The funding allows for either a single Principal Investigator (PI) or a partnership model involving Initiating and Partnering PIs. Partnerships are encouraged but must be substantive and collaborative, with balanced contributions and funding.

The program expects to distribute approximately $27.9 million in FY25, funding around three awards. Maximum direct costs are capped at $4 million for single-PI applications and $5 million for partnerships, over a performance period of up to four years. Applications must justify their scope within the defined funding level and demonstrate a high potential for major breakthroughs. Acceptable costs include travel for collaborations, scientific meetings, and participant support for trial-related expenses.

Eligible applicants include a wide range of organizations—academic, nonprofit, for-profit, government (excluding DOD intramural organizations), both domestic and international. PIs must be independent investigators at any academic level. While cost sharing is not required, eligibility requires registration and an active status in SAM.gov, Grants.gov, and eBRAP.org.

Application involves a two-step process: a pre-application due by June 13, 2025, followed by full applications due by September 10, 2025. Applicants will be notified of invitations to submit full proposals by July 18, 2025. Applications undergo a rigorous review process evaluating scientific merit, impact, and relevance to BCRP goals. Final funding decisions consider both peer and programmatic review scores and alignment with program priorities.

The grant is managed through eBRAP and Grants.gov, with comprehensive submission instructions and component requirements. These include narrative descriptions, technical and lay abstracts, statements of work, budget justifications, and various certifications and compliance documents. Consumer advocate letters and detailed partnership plans are essential components, especially under the Partnering PI Option.

For support, the eBRAP Help Desk can be contacted at help@eBRAP.org or 301-682-5507, and the Grants.gov Contact Center is available at support@grants.gov or 800-518-4726. The anticipated award announcements and disbursements will occur no later than September 30, 2026, with funds available until September 30, 2031.