From funding to frontline impact — Join ISN Grant sessions at WCN’26
In 2025, ISN Grants supported educational and capacity-building activities worldwide in response to local needs:
- The Educational Ambassadors Program supported 5 ambassadors for targeted training visits in Peru, Rwanda, Pakistan, the Maldives, and Tajikistan
- 23 ISN Fellowships, 14 Interventional Nephrology Scholarships, and 4 Clinical Research Grants were awarded
- Emerging Leaders Program cohort 3 worked on exciting projects spotlighting the role of non-physician health workers in kidney care; Members of cohort 4 have now been selected
- 7 Sister Renal and Transplant Centers pairs graduated from the program
- The Continuing Medical Education Program supported 20 expert speakers to deliver high-quality educational content
- 15 early-career professionals from Africa participated in the Scientific Writing course in Kenya.
At WCN’26, you’ll see what this support looks like in practice through dedicated ISN Grants sessions, offering behind-the-scenes insights and ways to get involved. Beyond the scientific sessions, ISN staff and grant committee chairs will be available throughout the congress to connect and answer questions and provide tailored guidance on how to benefit from ISN Grant initiatives.
Explore ISN Grant sessions at WCN’26
March 28
3:45-4:45 p.m. Room 311-312
Expanding Kidney Care Access Through Non-physician Workforce Models
Members of the Emerging Leaders Program Cohort 3 present their work on developing non-physician workforce models for kidney care. Through real-world case studies, they will share how community-based approaches can empower frontline health workers and expand access to kidney care.
March 29
11-11:30 a.m.
Table Talk: Writing a Winning ISN Grant: Tips, Trends, and Feedback
An informal, moderated group conversation designed to demystify the application process, share practical guidance for applicants, and help participants develop project ideas and collaborative partnerships needed for ISN Grant submissions.
3:15-3:45 p.m.
Table Talk: Developing a Strong Clinical Research Question
Join an interactive session on how to frame clear, focused, feasible clinical research questions that underpin strong study design and successful funding applications. Drawing on real-world examples, this Table Talk supports researchers at all career stages, including those considering the ISN Clinical Research Program.
3:15-3:45 pm
Table Talk: Implementation of Genomic Medicine in Nephrology – Why, Who, and How?
An interactive discussion focused on the practical challenges of implementing genomic medicine in nephrology. Participants will explore current barriers, share experiences, and discuss potential solutions, with an emphasis on fostering intercontinental collaboration.
5-5:30 p.m. Spotlight Stage 1
From Seed to Impact: Building Global Kidney Care Capacity Through ISN Grants
ISN Grants alumni and program leaders share real-world examples, data, and innovations to highlight how ISN Grants build sustainable kidney care capacity worldwide and create opportunities for collaboration.
March 30
1-2 p.m. Spotlight Stage 2
Recent participants in ISN flagship programs such as ISN Fellowships, Clinical Research, Mentorship, and Sister Renal Centers present their winning abstracts and achievements.
11-11:30 a.m.
Table Talk: When Transplant is Not an Option: Building Care Pathways for Children and Adults
This session will provide a space for nephrologists, allied health professionals, and policymakers to share strategies and practical models of care that bridge the gap between aspiration and reality.
3:15-3:45 p.m. Spotlight Stage 1
Squid Game Season 2: A Thrilling Game to Learn Kidney Genetics
A fast-paced, interactive game exploring genetic testing in nephrology and its role in patient care, led by Emerging Leaders Program members.
5-5:30 p.m. Spotlight Stage 2
Explore a new ISN education initiative designed to strengthen kidney care teams by empowering nurses, technicians, and community health workers in chronic kidney disease prevention and early care.
Secure your spot at WCN’26. Register at the regular rate until February 25 or join the congress virtually.
