CATCH Implementation Grants Program

The CATCH Implementation Grants are an initiative of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), designed to fund community-based health projects that aim to improve children’s access to health services and well-being. These grants support the initial implementation or piloting of such initiatives, building on community partnerships and outreach efforts developed by pediatric professionals. Each grant provides up to $10,000 and runs for a 12-month period. The program is competitive, peer-reviewed, and administered annually. Eligible applicants include U.S. and Canadian general pediatricians, pediatric subspecialists (medical and surgical), fellowship trainees, and pediatric advanced practice providers with a pediatrician as co-applicant. All applicants must hold current AAP membership at both the national and chapter levels. Only one application per individual is allowed per cycle, and current CATCH grantees may not reapply unless their previous award has been fully closed. Applications are reviewed by Chapter and District CATCH Facilitators, and preference is given to first-time applicants to broaden access to funding. Projects must be new within the community and must target populations outside the applicant’s direct practice setting. Funded work must demonstrate a clear plan for implementation of services or outreach, supported by community partnerships. Implementation activities may include outreach, care coordination, focus groups, data collection, and service delivery, with a strong emphasis on serving children with unmet health needs. Sustainability beyond the grant period is a key review criterion. Applicants must submit their proposals online by January 20, 2026 at 11:59 PM Central Time. Required uploads include a completed budget template and a letter of intent from a designated fiscal agent. Optional attachments, such as flyers, letters of support, or community meeting notes, may be submitted but will not be scored. AAP provides detailed guidance and a budget template for use in preparing applications, and applicants are encouraged to consult their Chapter CATCH Facilitator for feedback during the drafting process. Budgets must adhere to strict guidelines. No fringe benefits, indirect costs, or payments to care providers are allowed. Ineligible expenses include medical equipment, clinical encounters, professional development, or capital purchases. Allowable expenses include personnel time for outreach and coordination, participant incentives, meeting supplies, and limited technology development. The total allowable budget cannot exceed $10,000, and all line items must include a formula and justification. Projects begin June 1, 2026 and end after 12 months. Final narrative and financial reports are due within 60 days of completion, with a one-time six-month extension possible upon approval. The CATCH Program is funded through the Roots & Wings Foundation, the AAP Friends of Children Fund, and other AAP divisions, and supports the leadership of pediatricians in advancing health equity and access for children nationwide.

Applicants who receive feedback from Chapter CATCH Facilitators are awarded additional credit.