The Alberta Cancer Foundation (ACF) is the newest partner of the Creative Destruction Lab (CDL) Cancer program, joining a growing initiative focused on advancing technologies that aim to transform cancer care and improve patient outcomes.
Launched in 2022 through a partnership with the Canadian Cancer Society, CDL Cancer is a specialized stream for early-stage science and tech companies developing transformative solutions across the cancer care continuum. The program has already helped graduate 18 startups that collectively hold more than $375 million in equity value, with approximately 80% expected to be in clinical settings by 2027. These innovations are projected to impact more than 24 million patients globally.
With the ACF now on board, CDL Cancer further strengthens its national collaboration in support of healthcare innovation. “We’re proud to partner with CDL Cancer to help accelerate bold ideas that have the power to transform cancer care,” said Wendy Beauchesne, CEO of the Alberta Cancer Foundation. “Together, we’re creating more hope, more innovation, and more moments for those facing cancer.”
The CDL Cancer program is currently delivered at CDL-Toronto and CDL-Vancouver, hosted at the Rotman School of Management (University of Toronto) and Sauder School of Business (University of British Columbia), respectively. For the 2025/26 program year, CDL Cancer will expand to Calgary with CDL-Rockies, hosted at the Haskayne School of Business at the University of Calgary.
“Cancer touches the lives of nearly every person, whether directly or through a loved one,” said Sonia Sennik, CEO of Creative Destruction Lab. “Welcoming the Alberta Cancer Foundation as a CDL Cancer partner strengthens our ability to support Canada’s healthcare and research communities.”
Andrea Seale, CEO of the Canadian Cancer Society, added: “We have big ambitions and are confident that together we can achieve them.”
The upcoming nine-month CDL Cancer program begins in October 2025 and concludes in June 2026. Participants attend four intensive objective-setting sessions with world-class mentors to refine their strategies, attract capital, and fast-track progress.
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