Pharmacy Support Grant

The Pharmacy Support Grant offered by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is a competitive grant opportunity aimed at bolstering pharmacy-based efforts in diabetes prevention and self-management education. The grant supports new and existing programs such as the National Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) and Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) delivered through pharmacies. Additionally, the grant funds training for pharmacy staff to serve as Lifestyle Change Coaches, including new staff like Community Health Workers and existing staff such as pharmacy technicians. The goal of this funding is to enhance enrollment, retention, and service delivery to priority populations, particularly Black, Hispanic, and rural residents of Illinois, who experience higher burdens of diabetes. Funded activities may include outreach and marketing, improving scheduling, transportation support, and implementing systems that streamline referrals from both clinical and community sources. Pharmacies may also use funds to strengthen billing systems, participate in network arrangements such as Community Pharmacy Enhanced Services Networks (CPESN), and implement electronic systems for information exchange with primary care providers. To be eligible, applicants must be brick-and-mortar pharmacies located in Illinois and able to bill Medicare. Pharmacies without this capacity are disqualified. The maximum award per grantee is $30,000, and four awards are expected. Funds may not be used for equipment, medical supplies, clinical care, or certain other restricted expenses. A minimum of 10% of the awarded budget must address social determinants of health or barriers to participation. Applicants must submit a detailed project plan covering activities from January 1, 2026, through June 29, 2026. The plan must include milestones, timelines, personnel assignments, and partner roles. Grantees must submit quarterly performance reports and participate in at least quarterly conference calls with IDPH. The award is eligible for two additional non-competitive renewal years, contingent on demonstrated progress and sustainability planning, such as billing Medicaid or Medicare. Applications must be submitted via the IDPH Electronic Grants Administration and Management System (EGrAMS) between November 12, 2025, and December 19, 2025, by 3:30 PM CT. A non-mandatory technical assistance session will be held on November 21, 2025, at 10:00 AM. The point of contact for this opportunity is Keturah Tracy, who can be reached via email at keturah.tracy@illinois.gov or phone at 217-785-5243. Award announcements are anticipated by January 1, 2026.

Ensure project targets priority populations; include detailed milestones; reserve 10% for barrier reduction.