In the first year, major weighted criteria included but were not limited to: article publication; editor or author of text or journal; receipt of large research grants; achievement awards from national organizations. Junior faculty received additional consideration for more modest grant receipt; advancement to associate professor; and chairmanship of major committees in medical societies or at the medical school. Criteria were further refined the second year based on BMERF member feedback. FINDINGS TO DATE: In the first year of 197 eligible members, 47 (24%) submitted material for consideration for compensation. 31 awards were given (66%), ranging upwards from $1,000, few going to junior faculty (defined by the committee as 7 or fewer years out of residency). The second year there were 77 submissions (39%) and 41 awards (53%), with a minimum award of $625. Three General Medicine Division members received awards, from a division membership of 24. KEY LESSONS LEARNED: LESSONS AND ISSUES FOR CONSIDERATION: 1) The concept and execution of the program were well received.