EmWELL Micro Funding Program

People who are closest to the problem are often closest to the solution. At Emory, we believe that meaningful and sustainable change begins with empowering our frontline employees—the individuals who experience day-to-day challenges firsthand and have deep insight into what their teams truly need to thrive. Their lived experience and practical knowledge are essential to identifying opportunities for improvement and shaping solutions that are both relevant and impactful.

By intentionally elevating the voices of frontline staff and inviting them to actively participate in the design and implementation of solutions, we create a culture of shared ownership and trust. This collaborative approach strengthens the employee experience, fosters a deeper sense of belonging, and supports the overall well-being of our workforce. When employees feel heard, valued, and empowered to drive change, teams become more engaged, resilient, and connected.

To turn these ideas into action, EmWELL offers an annual micro funding opportunity of up to $5,000 to support select individual teams in executing employee-driven approaches tailored to their unique environments. These investments are designed to help teams pilot new ideas, address local needs, and implement practical solutions that enhance well-being and connection in meaningful ways. Through the micro funding program, Emory reinforces its commitment to cultivating a healthier, more supportive, and more connected workplace—one shaped by the people who know it best.

Application Information

The annual application window typically opens in late May. The next application cycle will open on May 18th, 2026. Please continue to check this page for updates.


Micro Funding Information

Team-oriented focus

  • Interventions focused on team well-being, belonging, and collegiality, especially those building strong connections and enhancing professional collaboration among interdisciplinary teams

  • Emphasis on leveraging existing resources, scaling ongoing projects, and engaging current stakeholders in new ways

Long-term impact

  • Focus on sustained change or impact, rather than short term solution

  • Projects that have the potential for continuity beyond the funding of cycle, as well as feasibility to be scaled to larger audiences, will be prioritized

Alignment with Emory’s Cultural Beliefs

  • Project objectives, intervention, and execution align with Emory’s cultural beliefs (One Emory, Lead Change, People Centered, Own It), positively impacting workplace culture

  • Applicant(s) must be employed (part-time of full-time) by Emory Healthcare or WHSC entity (School of Medicine, Nursing, Public Health; Winship or Emory Primate Research Center) to apply for funds

  • One Project Leader (Primary Investigator) per application, who will serve as the primary point of contact for the project
    • There is no limit to number of Co-Investigators or project partners

  • Project must be completed within 12 months of receipt of funding, with an additional 6 months allotted for data analysis, if needed

  • All funds must be spent within the same fiscal year funding is received

  • Award recipients will be required to provide brief updates every 3 months throughout the duration of the funding cycle

  • Applicants must agree to provide one final presentation of their work at the conclusion of project

  • Selected award recipients with be awarded up to $5,000 in funding to support their project

  • Awardees will have the opportunity to seek feedback regarding their evaluation and marketing strategy from subject matter experts within EmWELL infrastructure

  • Awardees will also be eligible to apply for EmWELL Conference Sponsorship program if they wish to present the pilot results at the qualifying conference