Cure Fund Session
Cure Fund at ISPNO 2026
ISPNO 2026 is proud to showcase the Cure Fund, an innovative research grant initiative powered by The Cure Starts Now through the SnapGrant platform.
Focused on accelerating breakthroughs in paediatric neuro-oncology, the Cure Fund supports bold, early-stage ideas with the potential to reshape the future of brain tumour research. As part of the ISPNO 2026 program, it brings cutting-edge thinking directly to delegates in a dynamic and engaging format.
Following a highly competitive global application process, outstanding semi-finalists have been selected to present their ideas live in Sydney.
What is the Cure Fund?
The Cure Fund is a fast-paced research grant initiative supporting bold, early-stage ideas in paediatric neuro-oncology. It provides up to $50,000 USD to fund high-risk, high-reward concepts, the kind of innovative “big ideas” that need early proof-of-concept support. At ISPNO 2026, semi-finalists will pitch their ideas live in short presentations, offering delegates a snapshot of emerging innovation in the field.
We are pleased to announce the Cure Fund 2026 semi-finalists:
-
![]()
Dr. Pablo Acera
Children’s Cancer Institute of Australia
-
Dr. Jessica Bell
Children’s Cancer Institute of Australia
-
![]()
Dr. Belamy Cheung
University of New South Wales (UNSW)
-
![]()
Dr. Anthony Pak Yin Liu
The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids)
-
![]()
Dr. Benjamin Rayner
University of New South Wales (UNSW)
Live at ISPNO 2026
At ISPNO 2026, semi-finalists will take the stage on Monday, 29 June 2026 to deliver rapid-fire, 4-minute presentations of their ideas. This session offers delegates a unique opportunity to experience emerging research ideas and engage with future directions in paediatric neuro-oncology.
Award Announcement
The winning project will be announced at the ISPNO 2026 Gala Dinner on Tuesday, 30 June 2026 at Luna Park, Milsons Point.
⚠️ Please note: Attendance at the Gala Dinner requires a separate ticket. Delegates must register in advance to attend and be part of the Cure Fund award announcement.
Why it matters
The Cure Fund is designed to accelerate innovation by supporting ideas that may not yet fit traditional funding models. By providing early-stage investment and a global platform, it helps bring transformative concepts closer to reality, advancing the shared goal of improving outcomes for children with brain tumours.