FY26 Health Professionals Clinical Training Expansion Grant Program

Summary

the program aims to strengthen the state’s health care workforce and improve access to primary care and mental health services in rural and underserved communities. Grants are available for one-year planning projects (up to $75,000) or three-year expansion projects (up to $300,000), awarded through a competitive process. Higher education programs, hospitals, and other eligible entities in Minnesota can apply and must demonstrate collaboration with health organizations serving rural or underserved areas and compliance with relevant accreditation. Grant funds are not transferrable, and expenditures must align strictly with eligible uses outlined in the RFP.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants are Minnesota-based programs that train or propose to train advanced practice registered nurses, dental therapists or advanced dental therapists, mental health professionals, pharmacists, or physician assistants. Applicants must be located in Minnesota, train or propose to train Minnesota residents, and be accredited (or candidates for accreditation) by the appropriate accrediting body. Eligible entity types include institutions of higher education, hospitals, and others meeting the criteria. Only one application per program/department is allowed; there must be no overlap in trainees if an organization holds multiple HPCE grants. Physician residency, dental education, and dental residency training programs are ineligible.

Requirements Checklist

• Applicants must submit a complete application via the MDH Online Grants Portal, including a project narrative and work plan describing program type, need, timeline, and sustainability. Required attachments are audited financial statements, proof of accreditation, a due diligence form, and, if applicable, proof of a federally negotiated indirect cost rate. Applicants must select between a planning grant (one year) and an expansion grant (three years) and justify their funding need. A completed conflict of interest disclosure form is mandatory. Applications must clearly demonstrate collaboration with organizations serving rural or underserved areas.