2026 ANCC Pathway Award, sponsored by Press Ganey

About this program

The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), sponsored by Press Ganey, is offering the 2026 ANCC Pathway Award® — a $100,000 grant to support Pathway to Excellence®-designated organizations in implementing innovative programs that advance Pathway Practice Standards, improve quality of care, and foster a positive practice environment. Projects must demonstrate innovation, advance the Pathway standards, have community or global impact, be replicable, include a detailed budget allocation, be completed within one year, and the winning organization must send its CEO, CNO, and project lead to accept the award at ANCC conferences in Chicago (Oct 29–31, 2026). Eligibility is limited to organizations holding Pathway to Excellence designation and remaining in good standing through December 2027, with only one application permitted per organization. Applications are submitted online (maximum 3,000 words: 200-word abstract, 300-word description, 2,500-word proposal), reviewed by a peer panel, and are due April 13 at 11:59 PM.