Rapid Response Rural Data Analysis and Issue Specific Rural Research Studies

The Rapid Response Rural Data Analysis and Issue Specific Rural Research Studies Program is a forecasted funding opportunity managed by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This program is rooted in HRSA’s broader mission to enhance access to healthcare services for people who are uninsured, isolated, or medically vulnerable. The program aligns with HRSA’s commitment to supporting research and data-driven strategies that directly impact health care delivery in rural communities across the United States. The purpose of this program is to fund a single organization to provide timely, issue-specific rural data analysis to inform policy and improve rural health outcomes. By producing rapid-response research and assessments on emerging rural health challenges, the awardee will help stakeholders—including policymakers, health care providers, and rural advocates—respond more effectively to critical issues affecting rural populations. These may include emerging diseases, health workforce shortages, rural hospital closures, and other timely topics that impact access and quality of care in rural areas. The program offers a cooperative agreement funding mechanism with an estimated total program funding of $600,000. The award ceiling is also $600,000, and only one award is expected. While this funding opportunity does not require cost sharing or matching funds, recipients will be required to use the funds specifically for timely rural health analysis and issue-based research. All activities must align with the goals of the Rural Health Research Centers as specified in the assistance listing 93.155. Eligibility for this opportunity is broad and inclusive, reflecting the wide-ranging organizations that may be equipped to perform rural health research. Eligible applicants include domestic public and private institutions of higher education, state and local governments, Native American tribal governments and organizations (both federally recognized and others), nonprofits (both with and without 501(c)(3) status), for-profit entities including small businesses, independent school districts, and special district governments. Only U.S.-based organizations are eligible, including those located in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and American Samoa. The application process is conducted electronically, and all materials must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m. ET on the projected due date of May 14, 2026. The estimated post date is April 14, 2026, and the project is expected to begin on July 1, 2026. Award decisions are anticipated by June 1, 2026. At present, no pre-application materials such as letters of intent or concept papers are required. Applicants should ensure their proposals reflect a clear alignment with HRSA’s goals for rapid analysis and timely dissemination of findings. For additional details, interested applicants may contact Karis Tyner at HRSA via phone at (301) 287-2615 or by email at [email protected]. As a forecasted opportunity, interested parties should monitor Grants.gov and HRSA communications for updates, especially as the estimated post date approaches. The funding is part of HRSA’s strategic approach to leveraging targeted, data-informed interventions that address the unique health care needs of rural America.