Innovation Fund FAQ

2019 Innovation Fund Grants will be awarded to support untested, uncommon and distinctive ideas and activities that lead to groundbreaking efforts that align with and support the goals and objectives of the ACR Strategic Plan.

Get answers below to frequently asked questions about the program.

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Who is eligible to apply for an Innovation Fund grant?

Current ACR members and staff are eligible to apply for an Innovation Fund grant.

What if I do not know which ACR commission best aligns with my proposal?

Choose the commission or EVP with which you believe your proposal is best aligned. If it is determined that the letter of intent was submitted to the incorrect commission or EVP, the ACR Innovation Fund staff will route the submission to the correct commission or EVP.

What if my proposal is outside the preferred topic? Will those proposals that fall under preferred topic receive priority?

Proposals outside of the preferred topic will be considered although priority will be given to those proposals that fall under the preferred topic.

What information do I need to provide in the one-page Executive Summary?

The one-page Executive Summary must describe how the proposal is innovative; how it aligns with the ACR Strategic Plan and the ACR Core Purpose; affirm that the project can be completed within one year and provide evidence of the innovator’s track record of taking similar projects to completion.

What is the deadline to submit the Letter of Intent and grant applications?

Letters of Intent for the February application period will be accepted until December 15. LOIs for the August application period will be accepted until June 15.

When will I receive notification of whether or not my LOI has been approved?

You will receive notification that the Letter of Intent has been approved for the application process no later than January 10 for the February application period and July 15 for the August application period.

What do I do once I have received approval of my Letter of Intent?

Once your Letter of Intent has been approved, you may proceed with the application process. See the Guidelines and Application forms.

If my Letter of Intent was not approved, can I revise and resubmit?

You may be able to resubmit depending on the reason the Letter of Intent was not approved.

Who do I contact at ACR if I need more assistance?

Email the applicable ACR commission staff regarding specific proposal content. For questions regarding the submission process, email Lisa Puertas or Dee Salem.