Program updates
Reports
Resources for future applications
Agencies applying for grants in the future will need to submit a Project Pitch Deck. This webpage will be updated regularly, so please return for the latest information. If you have questions about this program, please contact improgram@watech.wa.gov.
- Pitch Deck Template (new version published September 2024)
- ITIB Criteria with Rating Descriptions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Tips for a successful project.
- Tips for preparing a project proposal.
Apply for $532K in IM Program grants before Oct. 16
The IM fund has $532,000 dollars remaining for Fiscal Year 2025 project grants. Agencies can submit project proposals using the updated pitch deck template until Oct. 16. More information on how to apply is available on the IM Program website. Be sure to check out the new tips to assist agencies with preparing their proposal for submission:
Project proposals selected by the IT Investment Board for funding will be presented at the Dec. 10 Technology Services Board meeting for approval. Projects approved by the TSB will have six months to implement their solution. Projects must implement before June 30, 2025, and grant dollars must be utilized in FY25.
From Legacy to Leading Edge - In September, WaTech published a report to the Washington state Legislature on the first year of the IM Program. This report, pursuant to the enacted 2023-2025 operating budget, provides a detailed look at the estimated and actual costs, project timelines, and business results of the approved projects. It also shares lessons learned and provides recommendations for future project proposals, emphasizing the importance of early planning, strategic vendor relationships, and active program oversight.
About
In 2023 the state Legislature created an Innovation and Modernization Fund (IMF) at WaTech that allows state agencies to address emergent legacy-systems issues or adopt innovative technology to meet a critical business need.
The 2023-25 biennial budget appropriated $3 million for the IMF, of which $1.5 million was available for fiscal year 2024. Within the first five months of availability of funding for this program, WaTech received 34 proposals totaling $6.6 million in requests. Twelve requests were approved and all funds for FY24 have been awarded.
The IM Program provides administrative review of agency proposals, establishes criteria and evaluates proposals, collaborates with state agencies to develop proposals for funds access, and provides project oversight of TSB-approved projects.