# NCI Awards Kovina Therapeutics HPV Cancer Grant

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) has awarded Kovina Therapeutics Inc. a **$2.3 million Direct-to-Phase II SBIR grant** in 2026 to advance the IND-enabling development of a first-in-class oral small molecule therapy targeting the HPV E6 oncoprotein for HPV-driven cancers. This funding supports Kovina's transition from preclinical research to clinical trial readiness, addressing a critical unmet need in HPV-associated cancer treatment.

- The award highlights federal investment in innovative cancer therapies, signaling opportunities for biotech firms specializing in oncology drug development.
- Procurement professionals should note the significance of SBIR grants as a pathway for small businesses to engage in federally funded biomedical research.
- Contractors and industry stakeholders can leverage this development to explore partnerships or subcontracting opportunities in HPV-related therapeutic research.
- The contact information for Kovina Therapeutics' CEO, Kristin Sherman, is available for direct engagement regarding this grant and related procurement activities.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Healthcare
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** September 24, 2026

### Government Entities
- National Cancer Institute (NCI)
- National Institutes of Health (NIH)

### Vendors
- Kovina Therapeutics Inc. (awardee)

### Key Quotes
> This award comes at an important point for Kovina as we move from compelling preclinical science into formal development.
> — Kristin Sherman, Chief Executive Officer

### Sources
- [Kovina Therapeutics Awarded $2.3 Million NCI Grant to Advance First-in-Class HPV Cancer Therapy Directly Targeting E6](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260924296975/en/Kovina-Therapeutics-Awarded-%242.3-Million-NCI-Grant-to-Advance-First-in-Class-HPV-Cancer-Therapy-Directly-Targeting-E6) - Business Wire