Innovate | VA PathFinder

What to Expect

1

Submission

Submit information about your innovation and company using our form.
2

Confirmation

You will receive an email confirming your submission has been received.
3

Intake Assessment

Your submission will be screened to determine eligibility for the repository.
4

Notification

You will receive an email notifying you of repository eligibility status.
5

Innovation Repository

If eligible, your submission will be added to the Innovation Repository. VA staff will have access to this database and can explore solutions as needs arise in VA.
6

Potential Connection

Should a need arise in VA and a staff member has identified your submission as a relevant solution, they will reach out for potential next steps.

Traits of quality submissions

Here's a quick glance at characteristics that make a submission through PathFinder truly stand out:

Strategically aligned to

Relevant to Veteran needs

Supported by data, evidence, or materials showcasing need or value

Represented by a clear ask for VA collaboration and stage of solution

Common submission roadblocks

We want your submission to get the attention it deserves. Be mindful of these roadblocks:

Solution already exists within VA

Unclear or incomplete ask for collaboration

Does not comply with VA legal requirements

Requires VA funding

Submitting to PathFinder is NOT a funding opportunity.
PathFinder does not award contracts, provide research grants, or offer other forms of financial support in response to submission.
PathFinder does not lead or establish scientific research studies.
Submitting to PathFinder is not a substitute when other avenues of engagement with VA are more appropriate (see below).

If you would like more information about how VHA purchases health care products, supplies, equipment or services, such as through contracting, visit the Office of Procurement, Acquisition and Logistics (OPAL) site.
For information about becoming a provider to Veterans in the community, please visit the Community Care Network–Information for Providers site.
If you would like to engage with a facility directly, please contact the VA facility closest to your location to volunteer or donate.
For general inquiries about engaging with VA, questions about VA services, or information about monetary and non-monetary relationships with VA, please contact the VA Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs.