Apply for a Grant
Training, education, and research in the field of gerontology are at the heart of the work at VCoA. One way we achieve these aims is to provide grants. We have been charged with administering two grant funds in particular: the Alzheimer's and Related Diseases Research Award Fund and the Geriatric Training and Education (GTE) Initiative.
In 1982, the Virginia General Assembly established a research award fund entitled the Alzheimer's and Related Diseases Research Award Fund (ARDRAF). "The awards shall be given annually to scientists in Virginia in order to support research into the causes of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, methods of treatment, ways that families can cope with the stresses of the disease, and the impact of the disease on the citizens of the Commonwealth."
Since ARDRAF's creation, VCoA has provided seed funds for research in Alzheimer's and other dementias at institutions around the state. These funds are used to stimulate innovative research into biomedical and psychosocial aspects of dementia, including cell biology, caregiving, and animal modeling.
As a result of ARDRAF's initial seed funds, Virginia researchers have received an additional $36.7 million dollars in funds and published 275 related scientific and professional publications. The quality of ARDRAF recipients' work is reflected by our inclusion in the International Alzheimer's and Related Dementias Research Portfolio.
Virginia institutions of higher education, community-based organizations, and other not-for-profit groups with a history of adult and aging-related experience may apply for GTE funds, contingent upon the availability of funds. GTE funds are intended for workforce training and education initiatives that can be completed within one year of the start date. Applications for training projects, conferences, or similar educational programs are appropriate. Applicants may seek GTE awards in any amount from $1,000 to $25,000, so long as this request is justified.