We’re excited to announce the release of a new funding opportunity: the Connect2 Community Network Catalyst Fund! The fund will support clinical, behavioral health, tribal health providers, community-based organizations (CBOs) and social service agencies in King County that are using, or are interested in using, the Unite Us technology to send and receive “closed-loop” referrals. Applications are due by January 8, 2021 at 5pm PST.
Background & Focus
Over the past 18 months, HealthierHere, together with more than 75 clinical and community partners, has co-designed the Connect2 Community Network in King County, WA. The Connect2 Community Network is a community information exchange (CIE) that aims to strengthen care coordination in our region by connecting social service, community, tribal, physical and behavioral health organizations. It will improve access to, and coordination between, the many different services that people need to be healthy. It will result in enhanced coordination and continuity of services that enables King County to be a healthier, more equitable community for all.
Based on community feedback, the Connect2 Community Network has prioritized the ability to send and receive referrals electronically, among other key functions. To make this available in our region, HealthierHere, along with Kaiser Permanente and Community Health Plan of Washington, is supporting the launch of a technology that enables its users to send “closed-loop” referrals. The Unite Us technology launched in King, Snohomish, and Pierce Counties in June 2020 as a closed-loop referral platform. Currently there are more than 30 active clinical and community organizations on the platform in King County and more than 130 referrals have been sent and received to date.
HealthierHere is launching the Connect2 Community Network Catalyst Fund to support organizations that are using the Unite Us technology or are interested in doing so.
Who’s eligible?
We encourage applications from organizations in King County that meet the eligibility requirements outlined in the Connect2 Community Network Catalyst Fund Overview, AND
- Are interested in using the Unite Us technology to send and receive referrals in King County,
OR - Joined the Unite Us platform on or after June 23, 2020.
This opportunity is open to a broad range of organizations in King County, and is available to both current partners and non-partners of HealthierHere. All organizations must submit a completed application by the posted due date to be considered for funding.
How much funding is available?
Successful applicants may earn up to $45,000 in funding to achieve key milestones related to network use within a 12-month period. HealthierHere anticipates awarding up to 55 qualifying organizations in this funding cycle.
What will my organization need to do?
Over the course of the 12-month Catalyst Fund contract, organizations will work to achieve milestones related to network engagement, use and optimization. This may include, for instance, registration and training on the Unite Us technology platform, onboarding and engagement with HealthierHere, and utilization of the referral technology to assist clients. Please see the Overview document more information about Terms and Milestones.
How can I learn more?
To learn more about this opportunity, including detailed description, eligibility, use of funds, terms, and review process:
- View the Connect2 Community Network Catalyst Fund Overview document
- Visit the Catalyst Fund application
- Join the Catalyst Fund Info Session on December 8
- Learn about the Unite Us technology at their next Unite Washington Community Strategy Session on December 15