Health and science innovation

The AstraZeneca Health and Science Innovation Challenge accepts applications from US-based nonprofits in July of each year for up to $15,000.

Funding supports programs that meet one of the following objectives:

• Present a new approach, tool or technology to help solve a health challenge, OR
• Build knowledge and skills in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math among K-12 or undergraduate students

Program Criteria

In addition to aligning with one of the above objectives, applications should address the following criteria:

1. Respond to an urgent unmet need related to health and/or science in the community
2. Describe the intended impact that the program will have on the target population
3. Define measurable outcomes and outline a how progress will assessed

How to Apply

The next Health and Science Innovation Challenge application period will take place in July 2017. To apply, complete the online application form which will be open July 1 at 9am ET- July 31 at 5pm ET. 

Applications that address the above criteria and describe innovative programs will be considered for funding. No unsolicited applications will be accepted for US Contributions at any other time throughout the year.

Exclusions

The Health and Science Innovation Challenge does NOT fund programs that focus exclusively on the following:

• Capital investments and unsolicited capital campaigns
• Fundraisers (e.g. events, galas, etc.)
• Healthcare provider salaries
• Media/awareness campaigns
• Meetings or conferences
• Professional education and/or training for healthcare professionals
• Research or clinical trials
• Programs currently receiving funding from AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca does NOT support:

• Endowments
• For-profit organizations
• Individuals
• Initiatives outside the United States or its territories
• Journals or advertising
• Political causes, lobbying, fraternal or social organizations
• Religious organizations whose activities are not open to the general public
• Nonprofit organizations that discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, military service, veteran status or disability.
• Travel

Addressing today’s most pressing health challenges will require equipping the next generation of scientists with the knowledge and skills to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers. Through our US Contributions program, AstraZeneca supports community-based programs for K–undergraduate students that help to build capacity in Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM). Some examples include:

• Science from Scientists: This organization enables classroom teachers to change elementary and middle school students’ attitudes and aptitudes towards STEM by complementing conventional in-class instruction with powerful programs that promote learning through hands-on experimentation and discussion. Science from Scientists sends real, charismatic scientists into the classroom every other week for the entire school year providing. These role models help students understand that scientists are well-rounded individuals with other interests and hobbies, not the stereotype frequently portrayed.
• “STEMulate change”: This initiative, led by the Forum to Advance Engineering, Inc., aims to expose all Delaware youth, especially girls and underrepresented minorities, to STEM learning. The project engages youth in grades 4-12 in hands-on learning during out-of-school hours to enhance interest in STEM, motivate students to enroll in higher-level school classes, and build students’ capabilities to successfully pursue STEM-related degrees/certifications and careers.

AstraZeneca is committed to supporting and enabling quality independent medical and scientific education that enhances patient care and meets our standards of quality and compliance. Learn more about our Medical Education Grants Office.

Medical Education Grants: The independent medical education programs that we support include educational activities certified for continuing medical education (CME/CE) for physicians, pharmacists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, as well as activities without CME credit.

Scientific Sponsorships: We will consider requests for sponsorship of scientific and research conferences and meetings that align with our core strategic business priorities. These meetings are used to provide opportunities for discussion of current research topics or scientific methodology and are not intended to provide medical education to prescribing physicians.