Guardant Health Launches Grant Offering 100 Free CRC Shield Tests
Guardant Health will provide up to 100 free Shield colorectal cancer blood tests per selected organization to support community screening and outreach during March’s CRC Awareness Month. Applications for the grant program are due by February 17, 2026, with approval notifications sent on February 20, 2026.
1. Grant Program Launch
On February 12, 2026, Guardant Health unveiled its Community Colorectal Cancer Screening Grant Program to expand access to colorectal cancer screening in March. Selected patient advocacy, non-profit, public health and health-adjacent organizations can apply for up to 100 free Shield tests per group, with applications due February 17 and notifications by February 20.
2. Shield Test Attributes
Shield is the first FDA-approved blood test for primary colorectal cancer screening in adults aged 45 and older at average risk. The non-invasive, methylation partitioning cell-free DNA assay offers a patient-friendly alternative to colonoscopy and stool-based tests, aiming to overcome barriers to traditional screening.
3. Strategic Impact
By partnering with community organizations, Guardant Health seeks to drive early market adoption of Shield and enhance brand visibility in underserved areas. The program may increase long-term testing volume, support health equity initiatives and strengthen Guardant’s positioning ahead of broader CRC screening efforts.