Rural Health Network Advancement Program

The Rural Health Network Advancement Program is a four-year grant initiative administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, aimed at strengthening integrated networks of independent rural hospitals and clinics. The program seeks to address structural barriers that hinder small rural providers from competing in a consolidated healthcare environment by fostering collaborative operations that preserve local autonomy while enhancing economic efficiency, service sustainability, and care delivery. Applicants must form networks of at least three separately owned entities, with 66% located in HRSA-designated rural areas, and demonstrate a formal governance structure, prior financial commitment from members, and the capacity to lead advanced health network initiatives. The program offers two funding tracks—Operational or Clinical Services—with award amounts ranging from $500,000 to $2,000,000 over four years, depending on the scope and needs of the network. The application requires a comprehensive work plan, staffing and organizational profiles, geographic mapping of service areas, and detailed budget justifications, all constrained to a 60-page limit for core narrative components. Evaluation is merit-based across six criteria, with Resources and Capabilities carrying the highest weight at 40 points, followed by Response, Support Requested, Performance Reporting and Evaluation, Impact, and Need, each contributing to a total of 100 points. A separate mandatory risk assessment, based on SAM.gov data, past performance, and financial compliance, is conducted independently and may disqualify applicants regardless of merit. Proposals are submitted exclusively through Grants.gov by July 24, 2026, and must comply with strict formatting and file-type requirements, excluding encrypted or password-protected documents. All awardees are required to implement performance measurement systems, submit regular reporting, and develop long-term sustainability plans ensuring continuation of network functions beyond federal funding. The start date for performance is September 30, 2026, with a mandatory end date of September 29, 2030.