Small Ideas, Big Improvements—Join the 2026 ICan Quality Improvement Contest

Posted on March 5, 2026 by Julie Apold

Some of the best improvements start with a simple question from staff: “There has to be a better way to do this.” The ICan Quality Improvement Contest is designed to turn those everyday ideas into meaningful improvements for residents, families, and staff.

Register to join us for the ICan Information Session on March 10 from 1:00–1:30 p.m. to learn how your team can participate in the 2026 contest.

ICan projects are led by front-line staff, who identify opportunities for improvement, test new approaches, and work with leaders to implement solutions. Along the way, teams gain practical quality improvement tools that help them think differently about problems and build momentum for change.

Now in its fourth year, the ICan Quality Improvement Contest is part of LeadingAge Minnesota’s quality program and continues to showcase creative solutions developed by teams across the state.

Past ICan projects have included:

• Creating welcoming gathering spaces for residents and families
• Ensuring wound care supplies are organized and readily available
• Strengthening teamwork through “Walking Rounds”
• Reducing missing resident items through improved labeling and tracking

About the 2026 ICan Contest

Teams will develop a project plan, test their ideas, and share results as part of the 2026 contest. Completed projects will be highlighted during a Virtual ICan Gathering, where teams will be recognized and prizes awarded.

If your team has an idea for making things better—even a small one—ICan can help turn it into action.

For questions or more information, contact Julie Apold, Vice President of Quality.