Yesterday, the Pedigree Foundation announced the opening of the application process for its 2012 Innovation Grants [4]. Ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 each, grants are awarded to qualifying organizations based on demonstrated use of creative programs aimed at increasing dog adoptions.

Last year, the Foundation awarded $150,000 in the form of seven Innovation Grants (out of nearly 200 applications). Among the recipients were the SPCA of Monterey County, Calif., for its “Take the Lead” program [5], which pairs shelter dogs in need of training and socialization with at-risk youth in need of opportunities for success and positive reinforcement. Oklahoma Humane Society of Oklahoma City received funding for a transport program. And Paw Prints Humane Society of Sedona, Ariz., received funding to purchase a mobile adoption vehicle to increase adoptions, community education and awareness, and to serve as an emergency evacuation vehicle for at-risk animals in the northern Arizona area.

I love these grant competitions because not only do they provide much-needed funding, they help stir the pot of innovation and spread the word about effective strategies for tackling what feels like the intractable problem of animal overpopulation.

For a list of past grant recipients and complete set of guidelines, visit pedigreefoundation.org [6]. Applications will be accepted through June 29, 2012, 4 p.m. CST.