Amount
$100,000–$300,000 for new projects (2025 average award ≈ $167K).[1][2]
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Highmark Blue Fund
Why Highmark
Blue Fund backs measurable health equity efforts across Western New York. BUL’s community health worker network, senior services, and healthcare workforce pipelines align directly with their priority areas of behavioral health, maternal health, healthy children, and healthcare workforce development.[1]
Recent cohorts highlight collaborations with community health providers and food security agencies—BUL can stand out by pairing strong data with East Side equity outcomes.[2]
Positioning Checklist
- Quantify CHW reach (clients served, hospital readmission reductions, chronic disease metrics) and tie to county health improvement plans.
- Secure letters from Catholic Health and other health partners to demonstrate integration.
- Budget for evaluation support if internal analytics capacity is tight.
Application Notes
- LOI is a concise online form outlining need, target population, outcomes, and partners.
- Full proposal (invited) includes 5–8 page narrative, workplan, evaluation plan, and detailed budget.
- Expect site conversations; prepare dashboards and client stories that illustrate health impact.
Risks & Mitigation
- Competitive pool: 100+ LOIs annually – emphasise differentiators: culturally competent workforce, East Side reach, strong metrics.
- Scope creep: Keep proposal focused on a single determinant (e.g., chronic disease navigation or maternal health) to avoid dilution.
- Data expectations: Bolster evaluation capacity via consultants or shared dashboards with hospital partners.
ROI & Next Moves
Estimated 60 staff hours (planning + proposal) for a $200K award delivers ≈$3,333/hour in returns, with strong renewal potential. Next steps: convene CHW/senior teams, compile outcomes, schedule a February touchpoint with Highmark community affairs, and draft LOI copy by late January.[1]