Frequently Asked Questions
Are you a nurse or nursing student working to solve a problem and an have innovative solution that would benefit from microfunding? Consider applying for the ANA Innovation Sandbox.
- What is the ANA Innovation Sandbox?
- A sandbox is a place for play. We see the Innovation Sandbox as a playspace for nurses and nursing students to get support to explore new ideas.
- Is my idea early stage?
- We are looking to fund applicants who need support to jumpstart their creative ideas.
- What is microfunding?
- Microfunding refers to a small grant (usually less than $5,000) to help get an idea off the ground.
- How often are the funds distributed?
- We offer application cycles twice a year. The sandbox funds are distributed every June and December.
- What is the application review process?
- Each application is reviewed in detail by the ANA Innovation Team using a submission rubric with a set of evaluation criteria. Applications that are detailed and complete with early stage, novel, and impactful ideas receive higher scores. We also look to fund at least one pre-licensure nursing student and occasionally have cycle-specific criteria such as nurse enterpreneurship.
- How will I know if I am going to receive funding?
- Individuals who apply for the Sandbox will receive an email letting them know if they will or will not receive funding. If an applicant does not receive funding, they are eligible to reapply for a future cycle.
- Does the funding have to be paid back? Are there any stipulations?
- The funding you receive is yours to advance your work and ideas. The funding cannot be used for:
- > Educational, office, or medical needs or supplies.
- > Existing educational programs or to supplement grants.
- > Conferences, conference travel, or professional memberships.
- > Startups that are beyond early stage.
- > Previous ANA Innovation Sandbox awardees.
- What are the requirements to receive microfunding?
- > Sandbox recipients are expected to:
- Write a thank you note addressed to the "ANA Innovation Sandbox Funders" highlighting how Sandbox funding has supported you, what it means to your initiative, and how the funding was used.
- Complete a 1-page report about your work since you received the funding, submitted to the ANA Innovation Team
- > Sandbox recipients are expected to:
Still have questions?
Please email our ANA Innovation Team at: innovation@ana.org