2026 Pathway Award, Sponsored by Press Ganey

The American Nurses Credentialing Center is excited to launch the 2026 ANCC Pathway Award®, sponsored by Press Ganey. This award, valued at $100,000, aims to support Pathway to Excellence®designated organizations in advancing programs that demonstrate innovation in their work settings, fostering a positive practice environment.

General Information

The project must align with the Pathway to Excellence® Practice Standards and enhance the quality of care within the designated organization. The winning organization is required to send their CEO, CNO, and project lead to the ANCC Pathway to Excellence and ANCC National Magnet Conference® in Chicago, IL, on October 29-31, 2026, to accept the award. The award includes a trophy and recognition on the ANCC website, press releases, and other platforms. The winning organization must complete its project within a year and present the outcomes the following year.



Eligibility Requirement

  • The award is exclusively for Pathway to Excellence-designated organizations.
  • The organization must maintain its Pathway designation and good standing through December 2027.
  • Only one application per organization is allowed.


Criteria

The project must:

  • Demonstrate innovative thinking.
  • Advance the Pathway to Excellence Practice Standards.
  • Improve the practice environment.
  • Have a community or global impact.
  • Be replicable by other organizations.
  • Include a detailed allocation of the award money.


Application Process

Applications must be submitted online and should not exceed 3,000 words. The application must include:

  • A 200-word project abstract.
  • A 300-word project description.
  • A 2,500-word project proposal addressing the criteria.

Applications will be reviewed by a peer-review panel.