The V Foundation for Cancer Research is a United States nonprofit organization that provides financial support for cancer research. It was founded in 1993 by Jim Valvano, a college basketball coach and ESPN broadcaster, with the aim of advancing cancer research that may lead to improvements in treatment and outcomes. Announced during Valvano's speech at the inaugural ESPY Awards, the foundation's motto is "Don't Give Up... Don't Ever Give Up!"
Headquartered in Cary, North Carolina, the foundation provides funding to early-stage researchers and established institutions across the United States. It raises funds through partnerships, donations, and events, including ESPN's annual V Week and collaborations with corporations, sports organizations, and philanthropic groups. The V Foundation distributes research grants through a peer-reviewed process led by a Scientific Review Committee, which includes experts in oncology and related fields. In addition to general cancer research, the foundation has launched initiatives focused on addressing disparities in cancer research funding.
History and founding
Valvano circa 1985
In January 1993, ESPN executives Steve Bornstein and John Lack met with Jim and Pam Valvano, offering ESPN's support in creating a foundation for cancer research.[1] Jim, who had been diagnosed with terminal metastatic adenocarcinoma on June 15, 1992, developed the initial plan on a yellow pad.[1] On March 4, 1993, at ESPN's first ESPY Awards, Valvano announced the foundation's launch while receiving the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage.[2] He declared its motto: "Don't Give Up... Don't Ever Give Up!" He passed away on April 28, 1993.[3][4]
Valvano's brother, Nicholas, served as CEO from 1999 until 2012.[9] Susan Braun served in the role until 2021.[10] Shane Jacobson currently serves as CEO.[11] Valvano's daughter has been involved in the foundation.[12]
The foundation funds cancer research by awarding research grants to selected researchers,[14] known as V Scholars, through a review process by its Scientific Review Committee. The foundation has also funded cancer research facilities.[1]
In 2025, the foundation awarded an $800,000 grant to Kristy Brown, Ph.D., at the University of Kansas Cancer Center to study how obesity contributes to breast cancer risk and whether lifestyle changes like exercise and weight loss can prevent it by improving mitochondrial function.[18]Salk Institute for Biological Studies Professor Diana Hargreaves received a $1 million V Foundation All-Star Translational Award to advance pancreatic cancer immunotherapy research, building on her prior work identifying SWI/SNF mutations as key to improving treatment efficacy.[19] Andrea Kasinski, deputy director of the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, was awarded an $800,000 V Foundation Translational Grant to develop targeted microRNA-based therapies for cancer, advancing innovative treatments toward clinical application.[20]
Gender disparity grants
In 2024, The V Foundation selected 15 scientists nationwide for funding through its "A Grant of Her Own: The Women Scientists Innovation Award for Cancer Research" program, aimed at addressing gender disparities in cancer research.[21]
Fundraising
Initiatives and events
The foundation conducts fundraising through a variety of initiatives and events, such as "Run For Team V" and "Fundraise for the V." Bristol Myers Squibb employees and others have participated in the Coast 2 Coast 4 Cancer Ride to raise funds for the foundation.[22][23] They host an annual wine celebration.[24][25] The foundation hosts an annual Boo-Yah! event to honor the legacy of Stuart Scott.[26][27] The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has collaborated with ESPN to fundraise.[28]
Dick Vitale hosts an annual event to raise money and awareness for Childhood cancer.[29] In 2025, the 20th annual Vitale Gala raised $12.5 million for the foundation, surpassing $100 million in total grants.[30]
Each year, the Dribble for Victory Over Cancer event, hosted by UNC Athletics in partnership with the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation and the V Foundation, raises funds for pediatric cancer research at UNC Children's Research Institute.[31]
Jimmy V Classic
The Jimmy V Classic is an annual basketball game organized by ESPN Events to raise money for the V Foundation and awareness for cancer research.
Corporate and media support
ESPN has supported the V Foundation through initiatives like the Tournament Challenge Marathon, a 24- to 25-hour programming event promoting bracketology during NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament while raising awareness and funds for cancer research.[32]
In March 2016, WWE partnered with The V Foundation.[33] Corporations, including Hooters, have partnered with the foundation to raise money.[34]
Public figures, athletes, and others
It has received support from public figures and sports professionals.[35] NHL captain Alex Ovechkin launched the "GR8 Chase for Victory Over Cancer" campaign, which ties his goal-scoring achievements to monetary donations for pediatric cancer research.[36][37] ESPN holds an annual V Week and has helped raise millions of dollars for the foundation.[38] In March 2021, Mat Ishbia donated $1 million to foundation.[39]Taylor Swift has donated $100,000.[29]
In response to 2025 U.S. government funding cuts, Nancy Major, MD, a clinical professor, radiologist, and V Foundation board member, organized a fundraiser in Park City, Utah to support the V Foundation.[41]
Fraternal and organizational
In 2005, the Orange Krush Foundation presented the Jimmy V Foundation with a check for $50,000. The money represented the one-millionth dollar donated in the Orange Krush Foundation's eight-year existence.[42] In 2006, the fraternity Delta Chi named the V Foundation as its official philanthropic organization.[43] Delta Chi has raised over one million dollars for the V foundation.[43]
Awards and recognition
The V Foundation recognizes different people for their courage and roles in cancer research.The foundation recognized Tylee Craft, a college football player, who inspired his football team and community after his diagnosis with cancer.[44]André Hoelz was awarded the Albert Wyrick V Scholar Award.[45]
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