SCDHHS Opens Year‑1 Rural Healthcare Transformation Grants on April 2
The South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS) will open its first round of Rural Healthcare Transformation Program (RHTP) grants on April 2, 2026, with more than $200 million available to scale proven models in rural communities. Applications are due June 1, 2026, and projects must be completed by September 30, 2027.
What’s being funded:
RHTP Year 1 focuses on one‑time, high‑impact investments that can be sustained after the grant period.
- Connections to Care — $75 million
Health IT infrastructure and remote patient monitoring to strengthen care coordination. - Leveling Up — $27 million
Expansion of evidence‑based chronic disease programs. - Wellness Within Reach — $27.7 million
Mobile crisis response and community care sites to expand access. - Shoring Up to Sustainability — $40 million
Facility enhancements, healthcare workforce investments, and a Masterclass Training Series.
A separate Tech Catalyst Fund will be administered by the SC Research Authority using a consistent funding approach and its own review process.
Who can apply:
- Each initiative has its own requirements; organizations may submit multiple applications.
- You do not have to be located in a rural county, but you must serve rural South Carolina as defined by HRSA.
- Funding limits apply to individual applications (with specific limits for physician/APRN/PA workforce proposals).
- Partnerships and co‑applicants are encouraged.
Key dates:
- Grant posting: April 2, 2026
- Questions due: April 16, 2026
- Applications due: June 1, 2026
- Award notifications: July 31, 2026
- Spend deadline: September 30, 2027
Projects are expected to start immediately upon award.
How proposals will be reviewed:
Merit review will emphasize organizational capacity, alignment with statewide geographic priorities, avoidance of duplication, clear outcomes and measures, and a credible plan for sustainability. Construction projects must fit the Year‑1 timeline. Projects that do not receive funding this cycle may be resubmitted in future rounds, contingent on CMS approvals and available funds.
Where to learn more:
Full details and application materials will be posted on April 2 at http://www.scdhhs.gov/rhtp.