Innovation Pilot Project Award

About this program

The CNS Foundation offers up to $10,000 for an Innovation Pilot Project to implement, evaluate, and report on an intervention addressing health care disparities or improving diversity, equity, and inclusion in neurosurgical patient care or the workforce. Projects must be conducted in the United States over one year during the upcoming academic year, with applications open November 13, 2026, through January 31, 2027. Applicants must be CNS members in good standing and U.S.-based neurosurgical residents or practicing neurosurgeons, and must submit a recommendation letter, change thesis, supporting evidence, and detailed project budget. Selected recipients must present findings at the CNS Annual Meeting, prioritize CNS dissemination, and submit post-award reports.