Nearly $1 million in funds awarded to health projects

To improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the delivery of health services, 33 projects in Michigan will each receive a grant of up to $35,000 in one-time funds thanks to the Health Innovation Grants administered by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

In total, MDHHS is granting $993,572 for 33 projects across the state. The Health Innovation Grants are intended to bridge the gap between creative, collaborative ideas and their implementation, which remains a priority for Governor Snyder and the department.

"Our community partners have shown great interest in providing innovative approaches to delivering health services in the state," said Nick Lyon, director of the MDHHS. "This year's funded projects will go a long way toward addressing unmet needs in healthcare delivery systems. Thank you to the strong field of applicants whose work helps improve health outcomes in our communities day in and day out."

This is the fourth year Michigan has awarded the Health Innovation Grants. Last year, 41 projects were funded for a total of $1.3 million. Organizations that had completed projects from previous years were allowed to reapply. Additionally, organizations were allowed to apply for funding to support replication projects resulting from completed 2016 initiatives.

Michigan has a broad number of public health priorities that can be addressed creatively to shape the future health of the state's residents. Projects that address issues such chronic disease, health transportation, mental illness, substance abuse, homelessness, health disparities in children, dental care, and much more, are among the 33 awarded applicants.

Eligible applicants include public, non-profit, and private organizations. When considering applications, MDHHS looks for projects that have the potential to be replicated and have clearly defined outcomes. Organizations are encouraged to include matching funds in their proposal in support of their intended projects.

The majority of applicants provided matching funds for their project to increase the potential impact of the grants. The projects reported a total matching amount of $1,272,600 for a total impact of about $2,266,000 in the state of Michigan.

For additional information about the funded projects and a complete list of the 33 award winners, visit www.michigan.gov/documents/mdhhs/2017_Health_Innovation_Grant_Award_List_541401_7.pdf.

Published: Tue, Nov 15, 2016