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The BID Learning Network Introduces Small Grant Program

By Chilunga Puta, BLN Director, BID Initiative

Jan 26, 2015

Posted in

Embedded within the BID Initiative structure is the BID Learning Network (BLN) which is intended to facilitate peer learning and dissemination of innovations and lessons learned. The goal of the BLN is to bring countries together to identify shared problems and solutions; use that knowledge to design common information system products, practices, and data policies that will be useful to all; experiment with these designs in countries to determine their applicability; and then use this experience to inform national and global decision-making. Through this collaborative design and learning model, the solutions should be more readily accessible to other countries. Ultimately, by adapting and implementing the common products, practices, and policies, the BLN will contribute to increased immunization rates through improved data collection, quality, and use.

The structure of BLN accommodates country participation at three levels: Demonstration countries with whom there is a deep partnership and high resource commitment on behalf of the BID Initiative; Design countries who participate in designing BID solutions and have the opportunity to access targeted resources; and Discussion countries who are provided with information and updates and have access to BID Initiative learnings.

The BLN has set aside money for small grants to facilitate the advancement of Design country specific goals that are aligned with the BID Initiative priorities. These guidelines are intended to guide prospective applicants from Design countries to access these funds.

Application Characteristics

  • BLN participants from Design Countries may apply for grants up to a maximum of $30,000 USD. These grants will run for a period of two years (2015 and 2016).
  • Applications will be received three times a year with submission deadlines of 30th April, 31st August and 31st December each year.
  • On successful completion of a project, a country can submit an application for a different project.
  • If an initial application is not approved by the Grant’s committee, one resubmission of the same proposal with appropriate revisions is permitted.
  • The proposal document should be succinct and should not exceed six pages.
  • Each proposal should be accompanied by a completed BLN Small Grants Program Application Form.
  • The application must be endorsed by the relevant Ministry of Health of the country submitting the proposal.
  • Priority will be given to subject matter areas that are aligned to BID Initiative areas of interest.

Scope

The small grant program will be a competitive process and will provide limited funding for short-term projects, not exceeding 12 months. These grants will be expected to be used to:

  • Support activities in the area of immunization information systems within the country identified, priority areas related to product development, change management, or supply management/logistics (or any other area that may be deemed relevant at the time of application).
  • Conduct exchange visits between Design countries (or others as applicable) with clearly defined objectives and expected outcomes on terms and conditions determined by the BLN small grants review committee.

Application Review

Applications will be processed through a review committee that will be appointed by the BLN advisory group and leadership. The decision of the review committee will be final. The small grant program is competitive and the BLN will not enter into any appeal processes. Grant applications will be reviewed within four weeks of submission.

BLN Small Grants Program Application Form

For questions, please email Chilunga Puta at cputa@path.org.

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