liveWELL provides funding to departments and units for initiatives that support faculty and staff well-being at work. Funds should be used for workplace-based environmental and organizational strategies that encourage healthy habits, movement and mobility, stress management, social connection, and other activities that contribute to a healthy and supportive work environment.

Wellness Grant Requirements and Guidelines

Departments/units that actively support employee well-being may be eligible for a wellness grant. To qualify, they must meet at least two of the following criteria:

  1. Personal Health Assessment (PHA) Participation. At least 50% of employees have completed the Personal Health Assessment (PHA) for the current calendar year. Contact liveWELL to verify your department/unit's participation.
  2. A plan to increase PHA participation. Examples include adding PHA information to onboarding materials, providing time during onboarding to complete the assessment, or sending quarterly reminders.
  3. Have an active Wellness Ambassador. Wellness Ambassadors keep well-being visible, create opportunities for connection, and align well-being with department goals and initiatives.
  4. Workplace Well-Being Activities. Actively incorporating well-being into the workplace culture. For example, use tools from the Departmental Well-Being Toolbox during meetings, events, or team activities.

Additional Requirements and Guidelines

  • Grant-funded activities must directly support the well-being and mental health of faculty and staff in a measurable way. Funds may not be used to support routine department/unit operations.
  • Funding is limited to $10 per faculty or staff member, up to $500 per department/unit.
  • Grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis each fiscal year while funding is available.
  • Each department/unit may receive one wellness grant per fiscal year.
  • All employees must have the opportunity to participate in or benefit from the initiative.
  • Grant-funded activities must comply with all university and UI Health Care policies.
  • Grant coordinators must encourage employees to complete the PHA and share information on UI well-being resources as part of the activity.
  • An outcome evaluation is required after the initiative has been implemented.
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Approved for Wellness Grants

Appropriate for work
  • Equipment that supports low-risk movement in the workplace such as stretching, mobility, posture, walking, and brief movement breaks.
  • Onsite Private Group Fitness classes provided by Recreational Services.
  • Tools to support stress management, recovery, and mental well-being such as stress balls, therapy putty, sleep masks, etc.
  • Activities that practice mindfulness, gratitude, and connection.
  • Items that support bringing a healthy lunch to work such as reusable lunch bags and bento boxes.
  • Enhancements to the work environment such as lighting, greenery, and ergonomic support.

Not Approved for Wellness Grants

Outside the scope of workplace wellness grants
  • Speaker fees. To request a workshop from liveWELL, visit the Department Well-Being Toolbox.
  • Food or beverage expenses.
  • Exercise classes not provided by Recreational Services. For onsite, virtual, or hybrid classes, liveWELL exclusively partners with Recreational Services.
  • Kitchen appliances for break rooms.
  • Massage therapy. For one-time appreciation events, consider the Staff Appreciation Grant Program.
  • Large equipment designed primarily for exercise facilities.
  • Structural changes to buildings and workspaces.

Apply for a Wellness Grant

The application is available from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027. Applications are reviewed in the order they are received.

Apply tODAY

How to apply
  1. Complete and submit the top section of the workflow application. Provide a detailed description of the application including a specific list of items the grant request will fund.
  2. You will receive confirmation that your application has been received.
  3. Applications are reviewed monthly by the wellness grant committee.
  4. Suggestions may be provided to ensure compliance with grant guidelines.
  5. Applicants will be notified when a funding decision has been made.
  6. Complete your wellness activity or purchase within 90 days of approval.

How to receive reimbursement

  1. Return to the workflow application and complete the bottom section.
  2. Upload receipts and photos, provide the MFK, and answer evaluation questions.
  3. Submit within 90 days of your grant approval date to receive reimbursement.

If not completed within 90 days, a new application is required. Funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis throughout the fiscal year (July–June).

Once approved, liveWELL will initiate the transfer of funds to the appropriate MFK.