Critical Access Hospital Basic Grant Program

The Critical Access Hospital Basic funding opportunity is part of the Wyoming Rural Health Transformation Program, administered by the Wyoming Department of Health. This program was established following the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act on July 4, 2025, which created new federal funding pathways to strengthen rural healthcare systems. The program is supported through funding from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It represents a large scale investment intended to improve healthcare access, sustainability, and innovation across rural communities in Wyoming. The purpose of this specific Request for Applications is to create incentives for Critical Access Hospitals to provide and sustain essential healthcare services in their communities. The funding emphasizes the importance of maintaining access to care in rural areas where hospital closures and service reductions are a persistent risk. Applicants are expected to propose solutions that foster collaboration between providers, regionalize services where appropriate, and implement more sustainable operational and financial models that ensure long term viability. The scope of funding aligns with broader program priorities such as chronic disease prevention, behavioral health services, workforce development, and healthcare technology innovation. While specific allowable costs are governed by federal and state guidance, funded projects must clearly demonstrate alignment with improving rural health outcomes and strengthening healthcare delivery systems. Awards are expected to be structured as one year agreements, with the possibility of renewal or amendment in subsequent years based on performance and continued funding availability. Funds must be obligated by October 30, 2026 and fully expended by September 30, 2027 unless otherwise permitted. Eligibility for this funding opportunity is strictly limited to Critical Access Hospitals or hospitals that will convert to Critical Access Hospital status before September 1, 2027. This ensures that funding is directed toward facilities that meet federal criteria for serving rural populations. Applicants must first complete a required Applicant Eligibility Information form, which collects organizational and compliance documentation such as SAM.gov registration. This form is a prerequisite for submission and is used to link multiple applications through a common organizational identifier. The application process is conducted through an online submission platform where applicants complete structured forms and provide required documentation. Applicants may collaborate with team members during the drafting process, but only the designated submission owner may finalize and submit the application. The application deadline for this funding opportunity is August 2, 2026 at midnight, with some listings indicating August 3, 2026 depending on system timing. Applications must be complete and submitted by the deadline to be considered for funding. While detailed evaluation criteria are not explicitly outlined in the available materials, the program places strong emphasis on sustainability, collaboration, and innovation. Proposals should clearly articulate how the project will enhance access to essential services, improve efficiency through regional coordination, and create durable healthcare delivery models. Awards are anticipated to be announced between August and September 2026, with contracts required to be executed by October 1, 2026. The program operates within a defined implementation timeline but may offer continued funding opportunities through renewals or future program cycles.

Complete eligibility form first and align proposal with sustainability collaboration and rural healthcare priorities