Innovation Competition for Team Members
At UM BWMC we reward innovation. We identify and fund novel solutions to common challenges faced by our patients and team members. In 2024, we launched the inaugural SPARQ Tank innovation competition, which harnesses the creativity of all UM BWMC, UM BWMG and medical staff team members.
SPARQ Tank offers teams from all disciplines the opportunity to compete for innovation grants. If selected, individuals or teams will have access to up to $30,000 to trial or implement their innovation.
This competition is made possible through the generosity of the BWMC Foundation and our donors.
Do you have a great idea?
Intent to Apply - December 13, 2024
The deadline for the Full Application for those who are selected to apply is January 17, 2025.
About SPARQ Tank
Accelerating our UMMS values of excellence and innovation, we welcome interprofessional teams or individuals to submit ideas for improved solutions and novel practices that advance health outcomes for our patients, families or team members located on the UM BWMC campus and our outpatient practices.
What Does SPARQ Tank Fund?
Projects may include new or improved technologies, practices, models or advancements that sustainably improve health outcomes, quality, safety, and experiences for patients, teams, families and communities across UM BWMC and our outpatient practices.
Who Is Eligible?
SPARQ Tank is open to any team member or medical staff member employed by or affiliated with UM BWMC or UM BWMG. Each proposal must include at least one team member who is employed by UM BWMC. Employee IDs are required to confirm employment.
How Much Funding is Available?
Total funding available for this challenge is $30,000. The projects have a 12-to-15-month timeline for completion.
What is SPARQ?
SPARQ stands for Special Performance Award Recognizing Quality. The SPARQ Tank competition was created as a companion program to the annual SPARQ Awards, which originated in 2022. The SPARQ Awards' purpose is to spark innovation throughout the organization. Winners are UM BWMC teams who made a demonstrable difference in quality through the implementation of an innovative solution. These projects generate the following positive impacts:
- Provide public recognition for UM BWMC team members who contribute to these improvements
- Create positive stories to share with our local community
- Accelerate improvement by identifying best practices that can expand to other areas at UM BWMC and/or the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) at large