Doula Workforce Advancement Program

The State of South Dakota’s Department of Health has announced the second round of funding under its Rural Health Transformation initiative, specifically targeting the expansion and integration of community and tribal-based doula services. This funding opportunity, known as the Doula Workforce Advancement Program, is designed to address disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes across rural, frontier, and tribal communities within the state. Administered through the Office of Lifespan Health in the Division of Community Health, this grant supports activities that aim to strengthen the doula workforce, enhance training and certification pathways, and incorporate doula services into mainstream maternity care delivery systems statewide. The Doula Workforce Advancement Program is part of South Dakota’s broader Rural Health Transformation strategy, which promotes sustainable healthcare delivery improvements through strategic investments and community-driven innovation. Under this initiative, selected applicants will implement scalable projects that recruit and train culturally and geographically representative doulas, improve programmatic infrastructure, and facilitate Medicaid billing integration. Targeted activities include funding for training and certification support, expanding community and tribal doula programs, and increasing Medicaid provider enrollment among doulas. Through these efforts, the state seeks to enhance access to perinatal support services, particularly in underserved regions. Applicants are encouraged to develop proposals that reflect the specific needs and strengths of their local communities. Projects may include the creation or expansion of community-based doula networks, technological investments for care coordination, and the development of Medicaid-compatible billing and data tracking systems. Integration of doulas into hospitals, clinics, tribal health entities, and federally qualified health centers is also a key program goal. The state emphasizes flexibility in program design, allowing for initiatives tailored to rural and tribal contexts while ensuring alignment with Medicaid requirements and long-term system sustainability. To be eligible for consideration, applicants must submit a Letter of Intent by March 13, 2026, and full proposals by April 9, 2026. The application process requires electronic submission of a complete proposal package, which must include a signed RFP form, an executive summary, detailed response to program expectations, and a cost proposal. While the state allows multiple cost configurations, proposals must align with the outlined 17-month initial contract period and adhere to state per diem and indirect cost limits. Required components include detailed budget justifications for personnel, supplies, travel, training, and indirect costs. The contract is anticipated to begin on June 1, 2026, with an option to renew for up to three additional one-year terms. Proposals will be evaluated based on technical capacity, previous experience, responsiveness to project goals, and cost-effectiveness. Emphasis will be placed on applicants’ ability to support Medicaid integration, deliver culturally competent care, and demonstrate sustainability planning. Evaluation criteria also consider prior project management experience, familiarity with rural and tribal healthcare environments, and capacity for collaboration. While awards will vary based on project scope and need, multiple grants are expected to be issued to qualified applicants. The primary point of contact for this RFP is Shelby Kommes, who can be reached at [email protected]. The RFP document, reference number 26-09RHT-014, is available for review and includes the complete scope of work and submission instructions. Additional program details and background can be accessed through the Rural Health Transformation initiative’s official website. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to review all materials carefully and ensure compliance with eligibility and submission requirements.

Proposals should emphasize sustainable Medicaid integration, training expansion, and culturally competent care.