Philanthropy & Partnerships
Broadening the funding base through targeted fundraising and communication
Clinical cancer research advances therapeutic standards — and, as a result, improves the lives of patients. To ensure that promising, scientifically validated studies can be implemented rapidly, it is increasingly necessary to complement public funding with contributions from the private sector.
Evidence-Based Impact
The development of evidence-based therapeutic standards across all types of cancer lies at the heart of the activities of the Swiss Cancer Institute (SCI). The findings from studies initiated by the SCI are directly incorporated into national and international guidelines and shape clinical practice.
At present, around fifty approved studies remain insufficiently funded. These projects have undergone rigorous scientific review and address clinically relevant questions. Without additional funding, their implementation is delayed — with direct consequences for how quickly new knowledge can benefit patients.
A Diversified Funding Model
The SCI’s funding traditionally relies on federal grants, collaborations with industry and the support of major research foundations. The share of private donations currently remains limited.
One reason for this is that clinical cancer research still receives relatively little public attention outside the scientific community.
The repositioning under the name Swiss Cancer Institute, together with the targeted expansion of communication and fundraising activities, aims to make the impact of clinical research more visible. The objective is to broaden the funding base and establish sustainable partnerships.
Support Programme: New Opportunities for Private Donations
A support programme was launched in 2025 to give donors deeper insight into clinical cancer research. In addition, a credit card bearing the SCI name was introduced in cooperation with Cornèrcard.
Both initiatives increase the organisation’s visibility and help strengthen the connection between research and society.
Why Additional Resources Are Crucial
Studies conducted by the SCI contribute significantly to the future development of international treatment guidelines. They help translate innovative therapies into clinical practice more rapidly and provide patients with faster access to effective treatment options.
A strong and dynamic national trial portfolio also strengthens Switzerland as a research location. Generating independent data promotes scientific independence and strengthens international collaboration.
Furthermore, non-profit clinical oncology research contributes to the efficiency of the healthcare system. For example, studies investigate whether reducing drug dosages or shortening treatment durations can achieve comparable effectiveness with lower toxicity. These questions are medically relevant and also important from a health-economic perspective.
Testamentary Donations — Creating Long-Term Impact
Anyone who chooses to include the Swiss Cancer Institute as a beneficiary in their will contributes to sustainable and independent research.
Bequests and inheritances are directly allocated to scientifically validated study projects and support their implementation over the long term.
Your Contribution Matters
At present, around fifty approved studies remain underfunded. Every additional contribution helps accelerate their implementation and enables evidence-based innovations to reach patients more quickly.
Support clinical cancer research with a donation or contact Marianne Ernstberger to discuss a potential partnership.
Together, we can strengthen independent clinical cancer research in Switzerland — for the benefit of patients.