Our Approach
The Sandbox Model was created based on the understanding that partnering early to “play” with research ideas helps community stakeholders and researchers strengthen their projects and partnerships. The goal is to provide a collaborative rather than competitive environment, where community and academic partners also have the opportunity to connect and build relationships. Incorporating the Sandbox Model into SJIPH’s funding application process encourages project teams to interact and make further connections with others working to improve health in South Jersey.
How It Works
During each funding cycle, LOIs submitted by project teams are reviewed for how well they match SJIPH’s funding goals. After this review, a number of project teams are invited to move forward in their application process by attending what is called a “Sandbox Event”. This meeting is a collaborative environment where partnership teams and research facilitators expand upon their previously submitted LOI by refining research objectives and developing an outline for a full research proposal.
The Sandbox Event serves three purposes: (a) clearly communicate to potential grantees the goals of the research funding; (b) bring researchers and community organizations with related interests and complementary skills together; (c) produce, during the meeting, proposal outlines that can be guided to full research proposals.
Pictures from past Sandbox Events:
