AASLD Project Innovation Awards

New in 2025, the Project Innovation Awards are donor-funded grants awarded to high-impact member-led proposals. Awarded projects receive funding and recognition for their innovation and potential to benefit the liver health community. 

These are not research awards. Instead, the Project Innovation Awards support innovative member-led programs and initiatives that advance liver health through practical, real-world solutions.

Funding for the inaugural Project Innovation Award was provided by the AASLD Foundation thanks to the generous donation by an anonymous donor. This award is dependent on future funding that is not guaranteed.

Award Eligibility

Proposals must adhere to the following eligibility criteria:

  • Proposals must be submitted by AASLD members in good standing.
  • Receive the endorsement of a SIG or Committee.
  • Receive endorsement of the assigned Governing Board liaison.

Project Submission Evaluation

How project submissions are evaluated:

  • AASLD staff will conduct an initial eligibility review to include such criteria as current membership.
  • From there, committees or SIGs will be asked to provide input and endorsements for proposals.
  • Approved proposals will be evaluated by a selection committee comprised of AASLD Board and Foundation Board members. Submissions will be reviewed based on:
    • Strategic Alignment: Demonstrates fit with AASLD’s strategic pillars.
    • Mission Resonance: Showcases relevance to AASLD’s core goals and values.
    • Resource Assessment: Details feasibility, cost, and required support.
    • Committee/SIG Endorsement: Includes necessary support from relevant AASLD stakeholders.

How to get project endorsement:

  • Once you submit your proposal, you will receive a confirmation notice.
  • Your proposal will be sent to the appropriate committee or SIG for review and endorsement.
  • Upon completion of this review phase, the Chair of the relevant Committee or SIG will complete the endorsement form which will be part of the overall proposal package.
  • This package will then be shared with the selection committee for evaluation.
  • Endorsements will be based on merit, feasibility, and strategic alignment. Members may be asked to present or answer questions to support their proposals.
  • For more information about project endorsements, contact your AASLD Committee or SIG Staff Liaison.

Award Benefits & Recognition

Members may request any amount up to $36,000 in award funding to support eligible project costs. Funding requests should be proportionate to the project’s scope, impact, and alignment with AASLD’s strategic priorities. 

 When requesting funding, be sure to include:

  • A clear budget with projected expenses. 
  • A justification for how the funds will be used. 
  • An explanation of how the funding will advance the project's goals. 

*Note: Proposals may be partially or fully funded depending on volume and donor selection.

 Awardees

View the current AASLD Project Innovation Award recipient.

  •  2026: Marina Serper, MD, MS, FAASLD 

Learn More About the Inaugural AASLD Project Innovation Award Recipient