Health Professions Pathways Program: Population Health Investment (HPPP Pop HI)
Health Professions Pathways Program: Population Health Investment (HPPP Pop HI) supports organizations funding student pathways, internships, fellowships, and scholarships to strengthen California’s health workforce.
Funder: California Department of Health Care Access and Information
Due Dates: October 16, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Pacific (Application) | January 2027 (Anticipated award notices)
Funding Amounts: Approximately $4.8 million across a five-year funding cycle; category direct-cost caps of $82,500–$910,000
Summary: Supports organizations preparing underrepresented students for health careers through pipeline programs, internships, fellowships, and post-baccalaureate scholarships.
Key Information: Grantees must participate in Covered California evaluations and allow participant outreach for surveys and interviews.
Description
The California Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI), in partnership with Covered California, offers this competitive grant to strengthen pathways into California’s health workforce. It supports early exposure, academic enrichment, mentorship, hands-on experience, and preparation for health professions education or employment. The 2026 cycle includes pipeline programs, paid summer internships, one-year post-undergraduate fellowships, and post-baccalaureate scholarships covering tuition and fees.
The program seeks a more culturally and linguistically competent workforce in primary care, behavioral health, allied health, and care for older adults. Priorities include underrepresented and disadvantaged students and regions, particularly program sites in Covered California’s prioritized primary care and behavioral health shortage areas. Supported work should strengthen educational and community partnerships, address participant barriers, and encourage careers serving shortage areas.
