---
title: "Rural Health Innovation Fund: A New Opportunity to Advance Digital Health in North Carolina"
description: Discover how the North Carolina Rural Health Innovation Fund can empower rural healthcare organizations to enhance technology adoption and improve patient care.
---

[Practice Support Services](https://go.northwestahec.wakehealth.edu/practicesupport)

# [Rural Health Innovation Fund: A New Opportunity to Advance Digital Health in North Carolina](https://go.northwestahec.wakehealth.edu/practicesupport/rural-health-innovation-fund-a-new-opportunity-to-advance-digital-health-in-north-carolina)

 Written by [Practice Support Team](https://go.northwestahec.wakehealth.edu/practicesupport/author/practice-support-team) | Oct 2, 2026, 2:15:00 PM

Rural healthcare organizations often face significant challenges when it comes to adopting and expanding technology solutions. Limited resources, infrastructure barriers, and funding constraints can make it difficult to implement tools that improve patient care, strengthen operations, and support long-term sustainability.

The North Carolina Rural Health Innovation Fund (RHIF) was created to help address these challenges by providing financial support for technology-driven projects that improve healthcare delivery in rural communities. For eligible organizations, this funding opportunity may help accelerate initiatives that enhance access to care, improve patient outcomes, and strengthen healthcare operations.

## What Is the Rural Health Innovation Fund?

The Rural Health Innovation Fund is a North Carolina initiative designed to support rural healthcare providers and organizations in implementing innovative technology solutions. Funding is available for projects that demonstrate the potential to improve healthcare delivery and strengthen care in rural communities.

Organizations interested in applying should carefully review eligibility requirements, application instructions, and program guidance available on the [Rural Health Innovation Fund](https://www.ncbroadband.gov/ruralhealthinnovation) website.

 

## Why Technology Readiness Matters

Before investing in new technology, healthcare organizations need to understand their current capabilities and readiness for adoption. Technology readiness assessments can help organizations identify strengths, gaps, and areas that may require additional planning before implementation.

As part of the application process, organizations are encouraged to review the Technology Readiness Assessment Questions before completing the online submission form. Reviewing these questions in advance can help practices gather the information needed and prepare a stronger application.

[Technology Readiness Assessment Questions](https://www.ncbroadband.gov/rhif-technology-readiness-assessment-questions/download?attachment)

## Preparing Your Application

Organizations considering an application should begin by assembling key stakeholders, evaluating current technology infrastructure, and identifying projects that align with organizational priorities and community needs.

Potential areas of focus may include:

- Telehealth and virtual care expansion
- Digital health tools that improve patient engagement
- Technology that enhances care coordination
- Infrastructure improvements that support healthcare delivery
- Innovative approaches to addressing healthcare access challenges in rural communities

Applicants should also review the program guidance and frequently asked questions to better understand the application process and funding requirements.

## Complete the Online Readiness Assessment

After reviewing the readiness assessment questions, organizations can complete the online assessment form.

[Online Readiness Assessment Form](https://ncsu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_80qBAYwAxIrmMSi)

Completing the assessment can help organizations determine their preparedness for technology implementation and identify opportunities for future growth.

## Frequently Asked Questions

Additional information about the Rural Health Innovation Fund, including answers to common questions, is available in the program FAQ document.

[Rural Health Innovation Fund FAQ](https://www.ncbroadband.gov/rhif-website-faq/download?attachment)

## Take the Next Step

Technology continues to play an increasingly important role in expanding access to care, improving patient experiences, and supporting healthcare teams. The Rural Health Innovation Fund offers an opportunity for eligible rural healthcare organizations to explore innovative solutions and strengthen their capacity to serve patients and communities.

Organizations interested in learning more should review the program materials, complete the readiness assessment, and determine whether this funding opportunity aligns with their strategic goals.

**Resources**

[Rural Health Innovation Fund](https://www.ncbroadband.gov/ruralhealthinnovation)

[Technology Readiness Assessment Questions](https://www.ncbroadband.gov/rhif-technology-readiness-assessment-questions/download?attachment)

[Online Readiness Assessment Form](https://ncsu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_80qBAYwAxIrmMSi)

[Rural Health Innovation Fund FAQ](https://www.ncbroadband.gov/rhif-website-faq/download?attachment)

 

 

 

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