Healthy Oregon Workforce Training Opportunity Grant Program

The Healthy Oregon Workforce Training Opportunity Grant Program, commonly referred to as the HOWTO Grant Program, is administered by the Oregon Health Authority in partnership with Oregon Health and Science University and under the direction of the Oregon Health Policy Board. This program is part of the state’s broader strategy to strengthen the health care workforce and ensure equitable access to care across Oregon. The initiative reflects a statewide commitment to addressing disparities in health care access, particularly in rural and medically underserved communities, by investing in workforce development and training capacity. The primary purpose of the HOWTO Grant Program is to expand health professional training opportunities within Oregon to meet both current and projected workforce shortages. The program emphasizes the development of innovative and transformative training models that are community based and responsive to local needs. By supporting initiatives that increase both the number and diversity of trained health professionals, the program seeks to improve the distribution of providers across geographic regions and enhance culturally competent care delivery. Funding for the program has been allocated at approximately twelve million dollars for the 2023 through 2025 biennium. These funds are intended to support projects that directly address workforce gaps through education, training, and pipeline development strategies. While specific allowable costs are not detailed in the provided source, the program’s focus on training initiatives suggests that funds may be used for program development, educational infrastructure, partnerships, and other activities that contribute to workforce expansion. The emphasis on innovation indicates that applicants are encouraged to propose new or enhanced models of training rather than maintaining existing programs without modification. Eligibility requirements are not explicitly detailed in the provided material; however, the program’s structure and objectives imply that eligible applicants likely include organizations involved in health professional training, such as academic institutions, health systems, and community-based organizations. The program’s emphasis on community-based solutions and partnerships suggests that collaborative applications may be particularly competitive. Additionally, projects must demonstrate a clear connection to addressing workforce shortages in rural or underserved areas within Oregon, aligning with the program’s geographic and equity priorities. The application process is structured around periodic funding rounds, referred to as requests for grant proposals. The next anticipated round, identified as Round 7, is expected to be posted in late 2026, with a submission deadline to be determined. Interested applicants are encouraged to sign up for notifications to stay informed about upcoming opportunities. While specific submission components and evaluation criteria are not outlined in the provided source, typical requirements for such programs may include detailed project proposals, budgets, and descriptions of anticipated outcomes and impact on workforce capacity. The HOWTO Grant Program operates on a recurring cycle, with multiple rounds of funding released over time. This recurring structure allows the program to adapt to evolving workforce needs and incorporate lessons learned from previous funding cycles. Applicants should anticipate a competitive review process focused on innovation, impact, and alignment with state workforce priorities. For additional information or inquiries, the program provides a dedicated contact email, HOWTO.grant.program@odhsoha.oregon.gov, which serves as the primary communication channel for prospective applicants. Overall, the program represents a significant investment in Oregon’s health care infrastructure and workforce sustainability.