Expansion of Insurance Coverage Through Innovative Underwriting
This grant funds research on how innovative, technology-driven underwriting methods can expand insurance coverage and close protection gaps.
Funder: Society of Actuaries
Due Dates: June 30, 2026 (Intent to Submit) | July 15, 2026 (Full Proposal)
Funding Amounts: Typical project awards: $25,000–$50,000; literature reviews: $15,000–$20,000; surveys: $28,000–$55,000.
Summary: Supports research on how innovative underwriting can expand insurance coverage and address protection gaps.
Key Information: Notification of intent is required by June 30, 2026, before full proposal submission.
Description
This grant opportunity from the Society of Actuaries Research Institute invites proposals for a comprehensive research study investigating the impact of underwriting innovations on expanding insurance coverage. The aim is to analyze how advancements in underwriting—from manual to data-driven and technology-enabled approaches—can increase insurance market penetration, cover broader populations, and close protection gaps. The research should consider the interplay of underwriting philosophy, product offerings, and distribution channels, as well as the challenges and opportunities presented by new technologies such as AI and non-traditional data sources. Proposals may also address potential risks, such as applicants exploiting technological or medical advances to manipulate underwriting outcomes, and provide insights into the future evolution of insured populations through innovative underwriting.
