Rural Communities Opioid Response Program (RCORP)-Planning

The Rural Communities Opioid Response Program (RCORP)-Planning, administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), is a federal grant initiative designed to support rural communities in developing strategies to address substance use disorder (SUD), with a primary emphasis on opioid misuse. As part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, HRSA plays a critical role in expanding healthcare access and strengthening systems in underserved areas. This program specifically targets communities that face challenges in navigating larger, more complex federal funding opportunities by offering focused planning resources to create comprehensive, community-led responses to SUD. RCORP-Planning funds are intended exclusively for planning activities and cannot be used for direct service delivery. The program seeks to build foundational capacity in rural areas to establish sustainable systems of care that include prevention, treatment, and recovery services. Emphasis is placed on addressing co-occurring behavioral health needs and social support gaps that affect individuals struggling with opioid use disorder (OUD) and other forms of substance misuse, including alcohol. The ultimate goal is to reduce substance use initiation, enhance mental and behavioral health services, and lower rates of disease and death linked to substance use in high-risk rural communities. Funding will help communities design service delivery models that are accessible, integrated, and tailored to local needs. It will also promote workforce development and encourage local stakeholder engagement, ensuring that the planning process reflects broad community input. RCORP-Planning is especially relevant for applicants who need preliminary support to position themselves for future implementation grants or long-term public health investments. The program does not require cost sharing or matching funds, making it accessible to a wide range of applicants. Eligible entities include state, county, and local governments; tribal entities (both federally recognized and others); public and private nonprofit and for-profit organizations; housing authorities; school districts; small businesses; and institutions of higher education. Organizations from all U.S. states and territories are eligible to apply, provided they are domestic entities. The application process will open on February 2, 2026, with a submission deadline of April 6, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. Awards are expected to be announced by August 1, 2026, and the project period will begin on September 1, 2026. There are no pre-application requirements such as letters of intent or concept papers. The total estimated program funding is $4 million, with approximately 40 awards anticipated. Each award will be $100,000, a fixed amount that reflects both the award floor and ceiling. Applicants may contact Lynlee Tanner Stapleton at 301-443-5764 or via email at [email protected] for further information. Additional details, including eligibility definitions and updates, can be found on HRSA’s RCORP webpage at https://www.hrsa.gov/rural-health/opioid-response.