Hyundai Hope on Wheels, a nonprofit backed by Hyundai Motor America, has surpassed $300 million in lifetime giving to support childhood cancer research. The new milestone comes amid the organization’s 28th anniversary and plans to expand research grants to Mexico.
Over $300 million to cancer research in 28 years
Since its founding in 1998, Hyundai Hope on Wheels has backed childhood cancer research with lifetime giving crossing $303 million. According to a press release, the milestone underscores the nonprofit’s commitment to oncology research and giving hope to children affected by cancer.
The organization confirmed that its combined giving over 28 years has directly impacted the lives of over 40,000 children. A bird’s-eye view indicates that its grants led to an increase in childhood cancer survival rates by nearly 10% since 1998.
While the Hyundai Motor Company is the primary backer of Hyundai Hope on Wheels, the automobile company relies on its dealer partners for support.
“Together with our dealer partners, we have been part of this fight for 28 years, and we are not slowing down,” said Hyundai Motor Company José Muñoz.
Not resting on its laurels, the nonprofit will splurge $29 million in grants in 2026, with the lion’s share earmarked for the United States. Researchers in Canada will receive $3 million in grants, while Mexico will take part for the first time since its formation.
“At Hyundai Hope On Wheels, we believe that hope has no borders,” said John Guastaferro, Executive Director, Hyundai Hope on Wheels (US). “As we expand our mission into Canada, Mexico, and other countries, a portion of every vehicle sold supports pediatric cancer programs in hundreds of local hospitals.”
Hyundai Hope on Wheels leaves a far-reaching impact
Apart from backing pediatric oncology research, the nonprofit plays a key role in supporting survivorship. The nonprofit amplifies leading voices to address the long-term health and emotional well-being of children and families beyond treatment.
To do this, the organization leans on its National Youth Ambassadors to raise awareness. This year, 10-year-old Isabella Franco-Capps will join Jackson Trinh, visiting hospitals across the US and inspiring others with their survival stories.
“Their courage is a living reminder of why our commitment to childhood cancer research is so vital,” adds Guastaferro. “These stories reflect the breakthroughs, rising survival rates, and renewed hope that research makes possible.”
When Hyundai Hope on Wheels formally awards grants to recipients, the organization will cross the milestone of issuing over 1,500 childhood cancer research grants to over 175 institutions. Meanwhile, cancer research grants are on the rise, with several large corporations giving endowments to legacy institutions.

