The purpose of this grant is to provide support for CRNAs early in their career development to gain additional training and mentoring to become independent researchers and (1) conduct a mid-size research project or (2) evidence-based practice project.
Training and mentoring consist of activities such as additional coursework, online workshops, or mentorship in scientific presentation and grant and publication writing.
Research projects are rigorous, systematic investigations that aim to test theories and answer specific questions that have potential to generate generalizable knowledge and may be quantitative and/or qualitative. Such projects are expected to be consistent with Foundation research priorities.
Evidence-based practice projects are focused on addressing a specific practice question, acquiring evidence on that practice, assessing the quality of the evidence, applying the evidence to specific practice context, and assessing the outcomes to determine effectiveness and if the practice should be implemented for other patients or contexts.
Early career investigators are expected to be advised by an academic mentor.
AANA Foundation has identified a broad range of research priorities. In addition to an interest in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, the Foundation has an interest in research addressing healthcare policy, the science of anesthesia, education, and clinical practice, which can be found here.
Funds have also been reserved for research and evidence-based practice projects focused on specific topic areas, supported by generous sponsor donations, as detailed in the Funding Opportunity Announcement.
Eligible investigators include Certified Registered Nurse Anesthesiologists (CRNAs) within 5 years of having received their DNP/DNAP or PhD, including new faculty. The applicant investigator must be an AANA Member. Eligible organizations include institutions of higher education; nonprofit organizations; for-profit organizations; and nonprofit/for-profit/government-owned health systems.
Up to $75,000 for Research grants
Up to $25,000 for Evidence-based Practice grants
Allowable costs include training, consultancy, equipment, supplies, travel, and other miscellaneous direct costs including educational expenses (e.g., additional coursework). Indirect costs are allowable for research projects only and are capped at 15%. Funding is not intended for salary support for the academic mentor.
For full details on the available deadline(s), scope, eligibility requirements, and administrative processes expected for this grant program, see the Funding Opportunity Announcement.
Applications are expected to be open for submission in April 2026. Full application instructions will be available on the submission site. For Research applications, see the Research Grant Application Overview document to view high-level guidance on the content to be included. For Evidence-Based Practice applications, see the EBP Grant Overview document to view high-level guidance on the content to be included.