This New Connections: Increasing Diversity of RWJF Programming began in 2005 and during the past three years, grantees have been provided with several professional development opportunities including the Research & Coaching Clinic, Annual Grantee Symposium, and other training events. Additionally, each grantee is assigned an RWJF liaison to help them develop a better understanding of their particular program area and of RWJF in general. Liaisons are senior program officers or program officers who volunteer their time to support grantees.

To create a diverse network of researchers, some New Connections training events are open to applicants, alumni, and others who meet New Connections eligibility criteria. Please click on the event links to view eligibility guidelines.

New Connections is also dedicated to supporting the Foundation's pledge to reverse the childhood obesity epidemic by 2015. In support of this goal, the program offers special solicitations specifically targeting childhood obesity related research: New Connections Grants through Healthy Eating Research and through Active Living Research. For more information about New Connections- Healthy Eating Research click here. For more information about New Connections-Active Living Research click here.