Aims and Achievements

Since 1965, we have been continuously supporting the progress of cancer research through fundraising, disseminating accurate information on the results achieved, as well as on prevention and therapeutic prospects. At the core of our mission lies a common set of shared values and principles.

The AIRC Foundation for Cancer Research in Italy (Fondazione AIRC per la Ricerca sul Cancro, or AIRC) was founded in 1965 by a group of researchers at the Istituto Tumori in Milan, including Umberto Veronesi and Giuseppe della Porta, with invaluable support from eminent local businesspeople. From the outset, AIRC has been committed to fostering cancer research in Italy, and has gradually expanded to include 17 Regional Committees and count over 4.500.000 supporters. These are the people whose generosity supports AIRC and allows it to exist and progress.

Funds raised by AIRC support cancer research all over Italy. AIRC’s mission is to understand, prevent and cure cancer through research and outreach activities. AIRC aims to find solutions to challenges in cancer research, awarding grants to the most deserving projects, as well as supporting training fellowships.

Each year, the funds raised are allocated to research projects and fellowships evaluated and selected by AIRC's Scientific Committee, made up of oncology experts throughout Italy, and a panel of about 600 international reviewers.

In 1977 AIRC set up the FIRC, legally separate from but complementary to AIRC, recognized as a non-profit association in 1980, for the specific purpose of receiving bequests, legacies and gifts. 

What we do

  • We fund cancer research carried out at University Laboratories, Hospitals and Scientific Institutes.
  • We complete the education of young cancer researchers in Italy and abroad by offering grants and fellowships.
  •  We inform the public and raise awareness of progress in cancer research.

    A relentless, tangible activity that is only possible thanks to millions of donors and thousands of volunteers, who give our researchers the strength and enthusiasm to keep up the battle against cancer.

From the foundation to date

  • We have allocated over 1,5 billion euro (*) to research projects carried out in the laboratories of Institutes, Universities, and Hospitals throughout Italy;
  • We have allocated over € 63,6 million (**) in training fellowship to young researchers;
  • We have implemented a programme aimed at divulging and raising awareness on the progress made by research in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and therapy, through the magazine "Fondamentale”, the website and other communication channels.

    (*) 1.565.265.891 [The amount includes 60 million euros set aside in 2020 and that will concern the 2021 and 2022 allocations]
    (**)  63.601.001


data updated as of 31 December 2020