The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services has begun rolling out Rural Health Transformation Program grant opportunities designed to support rural and tribal communities across North Dakota. These grants are intended to strengthen health care access, improve community health, and support practical local solutions that meet real needs.
Opportunities released on April 23 and April 30 include several focus areas with brief turnaround times for applications:
- Behavioral Health Promotion Community Grants – support prevention efforts that promote mental wellness, reduce suicide risk, and prevent substance use. Due May 29, 2026
- Expand Rural Health Care Rotations – help expand clinical training opportunities in rural and tribal communities for future health care workers. Due May 15, 2026
- Train In Place – support existing health care workers in gaining new credentials, skills, and training closer to home. Due May 15, 2026
- Rightsizing Health Care Delivery Systems for the Future – provide technical assistance to rural hospitals and health centers as they assess services, operations, and long-term sustainability. Due May 22, 2026
- Ensuring Safety Net Service Delivery – help fill gaps in rural health and behavioral health services such as crisis response, withdrawal management, obstetric care, and telehealth. Due May 29, 2026
- Zero-Hour Physical Education Initiative – support school-based fitness programs that improve student health and well-being. Due May 22, 2026
- Community Gardens Project – encourage healthy eating, physical activity, and community connection through local garden projects. Due May 22, 2026
- Community-Based Walking Program – promote wellness, social connection, and preventive health through organized walking programs. Due May 22, 2026
The regional councils across the state, including the Red River Regional Council (RRRC), have been contracted to provide coordination, outreach, stakeholder engagement, and technical assistance to support grant promotion, applicant understanding, and successful participation in the program. The councils will be receiving training Friday, May 8 and we look forward to supporting communities as they explore which opportunities may be the best fit.
Kristi Kasprick, Project Manager with RRRC will serve as the lead contact for all Rural Health Transformation Program grant opportunities. If you have questions or would like assistance with any of these grant opportunities, please contact Kristi at kristi@redriverrc.com or 701.361.5705.