National Indian Health Outreach and Education

The Department of Health and Human Services, through the Indian Health Service, is forecasting the National Indian Health Outreach and Education (NIHOE) program under opportunity number HHS-2026-IHS-NIHOE-0001. This program will be awarded as a cooperative agreement with an anticipated single award. The NIHOE Program was established to provide targeted health outreach and education efforts to American Indians and Alaska Natives, with the overarching goal of improving health outcomes in these communities. The program aligns closely with the IHS mission to raise the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of American Indians and Alaska Natives to the highest level. Funding for this opportunity is projected at a total program amount of $851,311 for fiscal year 2026. While specific spending requirements have not been finalized in the forecast, the cooperative agreement will support activities that promote and support health education for American Indian and Alaska Native populations, coordinate communications with Tribal leaders about federal decisions impacting Tribal health, and improve access to and quality of healthcare services in Indian Country. Activities may include public health education campaigns, policy engagement, capacity building, and facilitation of health-related training and workshops, with funding used to directly further these objectives. Eligibility is limited to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that have demonstrated expertise in representing Tribal governments and providing services to Tribes, area health boards, Tribal organizations, and federal agencies. Eligible applicants must have a proven track record in focusing attention on Indian health care needs, promoting health education, coordinating communications with Tribal leadership, administering national health policies, maintaining a national AI/AN constituency, and supporting improved healthcare in Indian Country. Applicants must submit proof of nonprofit status as part of their application. The forecast indicates that the estimated posting date for the opportunity is January 26, 2026, with an anticipated application due date of March 27, 2026. As this is only a forecast, these dates may change, and the final synopsis and application instructions will be published on Grants.gov. The anticipated award date is May 31, 2026, with a project start date of June 1, 2026. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement for this program. The opportunity is classified under Assistance Listing 93.933 for Demonstration Projects for Indian Health. Applicants will need to follow application requirements as outlined when the official announcement is released. Submission will be through Grants.gov, and organizations should prepare documentation in advance to verify eligibility and organizational capacity. As a cooperative agreement, the funding will involve substantial federal involvement in project planning and implementation, ensuring alignment with IHS program objectives and priorities. For more information, interested parties can visit the Indian Health Service Division of Grants Management website at https://www.ihs.gov/dgm/funding/. The designated contact for this funding opportunity is the Division of Grants Management, which can be reached by phone at 301-443-5204 or via email at [email protected].