February 2022: Preliminary Application Deadline Reminder, Funding Pipeline of Healthcare Workers, and More
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New Application System Goes Live
As we strive to continually improve our grant application process, we launched our new online application platform, GoApply, on January 1. The new system will be more user-friendly and allow for expanded functionality for both applicants and foundation staff.
Grant applicants will be able to allow multiple users to access their organization’s account and, with a more dynamic dashboard, will see in real-time the status of any application.
The system will also allow our staff many additional opportunities to streamline the review process.
How-to guides and a video explaining the new system can be found here.
Reminder: You must create a username/password for GoApply in order to submit grant applications and grant reports.
Deadline Reminder: February 15
BBF is now accepting Preliminary Applications for General Grants. The deadline is February 15 at 4 pm. We encourage grantseekers to reach out to speak with a member of BBF's staff prior to applying. This gives us the opportunity to learn more about your project, provide guidance on the timing and amount of submission, and better understand your needs. We're happy to meet in-person, chat via phone, or connect via Zoom.
Addressing Critical Healthcare Worker Shortages
In the midst of growing concerns about healthcare worker shortages, Muncie is standing out as a leader in training physicians and other healthcare professionals. Since 2017, organizations have been working together to build a stronger pipeline. In January, partners in the effort-dubbed "Optimus Primary"-gathered to celebrate several big wins:
Creation of a new Bachelors-to-MD program
Development of a sonography training program
New model for experienced nurses to train Ivy Tech nursing students at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital
Establishment of multi-location “healthy lifestyle centers” providing free services in nutrition, physical activity, hearing/speech, and more delivered by teams of IU School of Medicine-Muncie students and BSU grad students
Integration of new point-of-care ultrasound equipment into physician training/residency programs
Last month, Optimus Primary partners gathered to celebrate several big wins that are cementing Muncie's identity as a leader in training physicians, nurses, sonographers, and allied health professionals. BBF has been a key supporter since the start. A recent news story on Inside Indiana Business shares more.
Where You'll Find Us Lately...
As staff, our job is to be building relationships with grantees, identifying needs, and helping to connect and convene. Here are a few highlights from the first few weeks of the year from members of our staff:
Donna Munchel, Grants Manager & Program Officer, has been working to prepare for the launch for GoApply. Feel free to reach out with any questions about the new system. And be sure to provide us with feedback about the new system via the survey link that you receive after application submission.
Rich Spisak, Senior Program Officer, has been out and about visiting early childhood providers across the city. As concerns about the childcare crisis gain national attention, BBF is looking at ways we can help locally.
Michelle Stephenson, Executive Assistant & Communications Coordinator, has been busy scheduling meetings for BBF staff with grantees and supporting our board of directors as we prepare for our upcoming board meeting.
Jenna Wachtmann, Vice President, has been working with conservation and recreation partners to imagine new possibilities for canoe/kayak launches along the White River as part of BBF's 'Project Blueways' funding interest.
BBF's President & CEO, Jud Fisher, serves on numerous boards and committees in the education and healthcare field which are keeping him busy. In addition, Jud has been working with law enforcement agencies and local government units on a new BBF funding initiative to bolster local cybersecurity resources under the banner 'Project Sybertooth.'
BBF Staff Remote: February 16-19
BBF staff will be working remotely February 16-19 for our February board meeting. We will not be available via phone during this time, but you are always welcome to touch base via email.