Sustaining a Statewide Simulation Alliance

•Creating value for subscribers is important. Subscribers pay for services such as scenarios and discounted classes.•Subscription fees provide ongoing revenue to the California Simulation Alliance.•Working with simulation industry vendors in a partnership manner can provide for additional revenue.•Developing multiple funding streams improves cash flow and should be an early focus of activity when establishing an alliance.•Creating a shared vision with alliance stakeholders is key to success.

BackgroundA central component of successful simulation alliances is planning for sustainability. Consistent long-term funding provides predictable resources with which to conduct operations, develop simulation assets, identify best practices, and advocate for the expert use of simulation in healthcare education and practice. However, little has been published on revenue models for simulation alliances. The purpose of this report is to describe the sustainability plan for the California Simulation Alliance (CSA).MethodsUtilizing various types of revenue streams, such as industry partnerships, subscription fees, and educational courses, the CSA has been able to sustain the alliance.ResultsA reputable statewide simulation alliance of over 4,000 members sustained with no outside grant funding for eight years.ConclusionsPlanning for sustainability of a simulation alliance is an important task that should be undertaken well in advance of its formation. Developing multiple funding streams improves cash flow and should be an early focus of activity.