RISE Initiative 2.4: Expand Non-GME Rural Healthcare Pipeline
RISE Initiative 2.4: Expand Non-GME Rural Healthcare Pipeline supports rural Utah residents through healthcare training pathways that lead to credentials and local jobs, reducing reliance on traveling staff.
Funder: Utah Department of Health and Human Services
Due Dates: September 11, 2026 (Applications open) | September 18, 2026 (Written questions) | October 29, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. MDT (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $3,000,000 for Year 1; up to $10,000,000 total anticipated award
Summary: Supports non-GME healthcare training pathways that lead rural Utah residents to credentials and rural healthcare employment.
Key Information: A consortium must include an education/training partner and a rural healthcare employer/provider partner.
Description
This initiative supports rural-based healthcare workforce career training outside Graduate Medical Education (non-GME). Funded by the Utah Department of Health and Human Services as part of the Utah Rural Health Transformation Program, it is administered by the Utah Board of Higher Education, Talent Ready Utah. Projects may develop new training pathways, strengthen employer–education partnerships, create career ladders for rural residents, and expand apprenticeships and internships.
Programs must respond to documented employer demand and produce measurable credential or employment outcomes. The initiative aims to expand non-GME training capacity, make career pathways locally accessible, and connect completers directly with rural healthcare jobs to reduce reliance on traveling staff. Funded programs must also advance the objective of serving high-needs populations or Tribal Nations.
