The application period for 2023 TEPHINET Quality Improvement Assistance is now closed.

About the 2023 TEPHINET Quality Improvement Assistance (QIA) Opportunities

TEPHINET is offering member FETPs Quality Improvement Assistance (QIA) opportunities for 2023. These opportunities are entirely program-led; member FETPs who receive assistance will design and implement activities driven by their own need to improve quality within specific areas of their program.

FETPs may be awarded up to $10,000 for eligible quality improvement activities. The deadline for applications is Wednesday, March 1 at 11:59 PM EST.

Eligibility and Selection Process:

Intermediate and advanced-level programs who did not receive a QIA award in 2022 are eligible to apply, regardless of their accreditation status. Priority will be given to programs that did not receive a QIA award in 2021.

The Quality Improvement and Accreditation Team will review applications and select programs for funding based on the following criteria:

• 50% Description and strength of objectives; objective must be SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely
• 30% Description of how the activity will contribute to quality improvement
• 20% Feasibility of the activity

Included and Excluded Activities

Activities may include, but are not limited to:

• Assistance in developing documents needed for accreditation
• Conducting needs assessments of training of graduates or mentors
• Curriculum revision or development
• Monitoring and evaluation activities
• Securing access to selected, relevant software (e.g., EndNote, journals, statistical software)
• Workshop targeting a specific need of FETP residents/trainees (TEPHINET may be able to identify trainers). Examples may include: data visualization skills, oral presentation/PowerPoint skills, scientific writing/manuscript preparation
• Workshop targeting a specific need of FETP staff (TEPHINET may be able to identify trainers). Examples may include: advanced biostatistics, mentor training, supervisor training, and other continuing education topics

Activities that are not eligible include:

• Bulk supply purchases
• Internet service
• Outbreak investigations
• Purchase of computers or printers
• Regular operating costs or routine FETP activities
• Research projects of FETP participants
• Staff salaries
• Staff travel
• Stipends for residents/trainees
• Travel of residents to conferences

Important Dates:

• March 1: Application deadline
• March 15: Programs notified about application status 
• September 1: Final reports due to TEPHINET 

How to Apply:

To apply, complete the following steps:

1. Fill out the Application & Budget Template, which is found in the “Required Documents” section at the bottom of this page.
2. Visit this link to submit your responses from the Application Template & Budget Template and to upload your budget.

Applications will not be accepted via email. If you have questions about the application process, please send them to hzanoni@taskforce.org. We are here to help!

Confidentiality: All information in the application and proposal will remain confidential and will be used only for this Quality Improvement Assistance opportunity. Programs will have the option of participating in a TEPHINET website or newsletter feature if they wish.