Health Careers Exploration Program (HCEP)
The Health Careers Exploration Program funds initiatives that expose underrepresented Californians to health professions, fostering workforce diversity and future healthcare leaders.
Funder: California Department of Health Care Access and Information
Due Dates: October 16, 2026 (Full application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $25,000 per award; typical range $15,000–$25,000; one-year grants; approx. $200,000 total available for the cycle.
Summary: Funds organizations to deliver conferences, workshops, or hands-on activities exposing underrepresented Californians to health careers and fostering workforce diversity.
Key Information: Applicants must be California-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits; new 2026 requirements include DOJ verification and website URL.
Description
The Health Careers Exploration Program (HCEP) supports organizations in California to provide early exposure to health professions for underrepresented and disadvantaged individuals. The program aims to build a culturally and linguistically diverse healthcare workforce by funding conferences, workshops, and hands-on career exploration activities. HCEP is part of the state’s broader Health Professions Careers Opportunity Program and is designed to inspire future health professionals and address workforce shortages in underserved communities.
