Optimizing Technology Solutions Innovation Grant

The Optimizing Technology Solutions Innovation Grant, administered by the ASHP Foundation in collaboration with the ASHP Innovation Center and supported by Omnicell, is designed to fund innovative healthcare technology projects that advance the safe and effective use of medications. As the philanthropic arm of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), the Foundation aims to improve health outcomes through pharmacy-led research and education. This particular grant opportunity focuses on digital transformation and health IT solutions that demonstrate measurable impact on care delivery and outcomes. Applicants are encouraged to propose demonstration projects that utilize technologies such as telehealth, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and automation to improve medication safety and effectiveness. Projects must include a strong outcomes framework and align with the strategic priorities of ASHP, emphasizing measurable improvement in care effectiveness and patient, clinician, or organizational outcomes. The research should also have the potential to generate findings that are generalizable to broader healthcare settings. The Foundation will fund up to two proposals, each eligible for a maximum award of $50,000. The grant period may extend up to 18 months from the notice of award. Funding is intended for specific research projects and not for general operational costs. Allowable costs include salary support for personnel (excluding resident salaries), IRB fees, consumable supplies, and up to $1,500 in travel for results dissemination. Facilities and administrative costs are capped at 8% of direct costs. Unallowable expenses include capital expenditures, stipends, software purchases, and endowment contributions. Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based not-for-profit, for-profit, or government entities, though for-profit and government recipients must administer funds through a 501(c)(3) partner. The principal investigator must be a licensed pharmacist and have an active research track record, though new investigators are encouraged to apply, preferably with a mentor. Proposals must also adhere to NIH human subjects inclusion guidelines and receive IRB approval before disbursement of funds. All study findings must be submitted for peer-reviewed publication within six months of project completion. The application process opens on November 18, 2025, and closes on January 30, 2026. Awards are expected to be announced in late spring. No pre-application steps are required, and proposals must follow strict formatting and submission guidelines. The required components include a detailed project plan, biographical sketch, budget, and a 250-word essay describing the project's impact on the pharmacy workforce. Applications will be evaluated on criteria including specific aims, significance, innovation, study approach, and feasibility within the proposed timeline.

Emphasize measurable outcomes; include biostatistical support; align with ASHP’s strategic priorities; ensure generalizability of results; PI must have relevant research experience or a designated mentor.