The UAB Strategic Investment Fund is accepting new proposals through Sept. 30, 2026, from teams of faculty, staff and students whose projects further the goals of Forging Ahead, the university’s strategic plan.
The SIF is designed to fuel innovative, collaborative initiatives that advance UAB’s mission. The 2026 fund will enable high-impact single- or multi-year projects to move from concept to implementation with meaningful support. Proposals will be evaluated using a common review rubric that considers alignment with UAB’s strategic goals, the strength and feasibility of the execution plan, team expertise, budget and ability to leverage other funds, senior leadership support, and multi-stakeholder engagement.
Funding priority is given to projects that clearly demonstrate interdisciplinary collaboration across UAB schools, colleges and units. Whether focused on launching a pilot program, scaling a successful initiative or addressing a campus-wide challenge, proposals should demonstrate innovation, sustainability and alignment with UAB’s strategic priorities.
Past projects funded by the SIF have made a tangible difference across campus and beyond, including the Live HealthSmart Alabama initiative, the Blazer Core Curriculum, and the expansion of UAB’s online programs and courses. The 2025 awards funded BLADE, a university-wide engine designed to bridge the gap between clinical/research ideas and engineered solutions; creation of a designated “makerspace” in the recently completed Science and Engineering Complex for 3D printing and additive manufacturing of advanced materials; and two eSports facilities: an instructional/research lab in the School of Education and Human Sciences and a recreational gaming space in the Rec Center. (Read more about past projects here.)
Members of the 2026 SIF Review Committee are:
- Janet Woodruff-Borden, Ph.D. (co-chair), Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost
- Tom Brannan (co-chair), Senior Vice President for Advancement and Strategic Initiatives
- Jason J. Nichols, O.D., MPH, Ph.D., Interim Vice President for Research
- Peter A. Jones, Ph.D., Chair, UAB Faculty Senate
- Nicolaas Geurs, DDS, M.S., Dean, UAB School of Dentistry
The Strategic Investment Fund is one way UAB continues to invest in its people, programs and future. Members of the campus community are encouraged to think boldly, collaborate widely and submit ideas that will help shape what’s next for the university.