AstraZeneca accepts online applications for Connections for Cardiovascular Health program

The AstraZeneca HealthCare Foundation announced Thursday that it is accepting online applications for the 2012 Connections for Cardiovascular Health^SM program.

To qualify for a Foundation grant, US-based nonprofit 501 (c)(3) or similar organizations must be engaged in charitable work in the United States that address the program's mission of improving cardiovascular health and meet key criteria, such as:

• Addressing cardiovascular health issues within the US and its territories
• Recognizing and working to address an unmet need related to cardiovascular health in the community
• Responding to the urgency around addressing cardiovascular health issues including cardiovascular disease or conditions contributing to cardiovascular disease
• Improving patients' lives in connection with the services provided

Foundation grants of $150,000 and up will be provided annually to innovative initiatives that are focused on clearly defined and measurable results and processes. The recipient organization must be able to demonstrate ongoing activity to improve cardiovascular health and the ability to sustain the initiative after the Foundation grant funds are spent.

In 2011, the Foundation awarded more than $3.6 million in grants to over 20 organizations to improve cardiovascular health in their communities. More than $6 million in Foundation grants have been provided since the program's inception two years ago.

Organizations can submit online applications for the program through Thursday, March 15 at 5:00 p.m. EST.