North Carolina's rural healthcare organizations will soon have access to a significant new funding opportunity designed to accelerate digital transformation and strengthen care delivery.
As part of the North Carolina Rural Health Transformation Program's ongoing digital health and technology initiatives, the North Carolina Department of Information Technology (NCDIT), in partnership with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), is preparing to launch the Rural Health Innovation Fund, a $20 million investment aimed at helping rural healthcare providers modernize operations and adopt innovative digital tools and technologies.
The competitive funding opportunity opens September 30, 2026, and is intended to support healthcare organizations serving rural communities as they navigate evolving patient needs, workforce challenges, and care delivery demands.
Supporting Innovation in Rural Healthcare
Digital health technologies have the potential to expand access to care, improve operational efficiency, and enhance patient outcomes. However, many rural providers face financial and infrastructure barriers that limit their ability to implement new systems and technologies.
The Rural Health Innovation Fund seeks to address these challenges by providing financial support for projects that advance digital health capabilities and strengthen healthcare delivery across rural North Carolina.
Potential investments may help organizations modernize workflows, improve data sharing, enhance patient engagement, support care coordination, and implement technology solutions that improve access and quality of care.
Learn More at the Informational Webinar
Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to attend the NCRHTP Rural Health Innovation Fund Informational Webinar on:
Wednesday, September 23, 2026
2:00 PM Eastern Time
The webinar will provide an overview of:
- Program goals and objectives
- Applicant eligibility requirements
- Funding priorities
- Application process and timeline
- Tips for preparing a competitive proposal
This session will also give potential applicants an opportunity to better understand how the fund aligns with broader Rural Health Transformation Program efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure throughout North Carolina.
Important Dates
Rural Health Innovation Fund Informational Webinar
September 23, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Application Period Opens
September 30, 2026
Why This Matters
Rural healthcare providers continue to face unique challenges related to workforce shortages, financial sustainability, access to specialty care, and technology infrastructure. Strategic investments in digital health solutions can help organizations improve care delivery while creating a stronger foundation for long-term sustainability.
The Rural Health Innovation Fund represents an important opportunity for healthcare organizations to invest in innovations that can enhance services, improve patient experiences, and build more connected systems of care for rural communities across North Carolina.
Learn More
Healthcare organizations interested in pursuing funding should plan to attend the informational webinar and begin considering projects that align with their strategic goals and the needs of the populations they serve.
For additional information about the Rural Health Innovation Fund and webinar registration details, visit the North Carolina Rural Health Transformation Program website.
