Maternal Health Emergency Management Training (MHEMT)

The Maternal Health Emergency Management Training (MHEMT) program is a federal funding opportunity administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through its Maternal and Child Health Bureau. This initiative builds upon the Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health portfolio, which was established to improve maternal health outcomes nationwide. The program responds to increasing maternal morbidity and mortality rates in the United States, particularly in rural and low-resource settings where access to obstetric services has declined. By focusing on workforce development and emergency preparedness, the program aims to close critical gaps in maternal health care delivery outside traditional labor and delivery environments. The primary purpose of the MHEMT program is to strengthen the capacity of clinicians and first responders to recognize and manage maternal health emergencies in non-delivery and low-resource clinical settings. These include emergency departments, urgent care centers, rural hospitals, federally qualified health centers, and prehospital settings. The program is structured around two core initiatives: the development of a standardized national training program on maternal health emergencies, and the creation of targeted implementation strategies that adapt existing patient safety resources into actionable workflows for non-specialized environments. Both initiatives are designed to improve early detection, stabilization, and coordination of care for pregnant and postpartum women. Funding under this opportunity is provided through a cooperative agreement, reflecting substantial federal involvement in program planning and execution. The total estimated program funding is 3000000 dollars, with one award expected. The period of performance spans three years, beginning September 1, 2026 and ending August 31, 2029, divided into three 12-month budget periods. Funds must be used to develop training curricula, conduct national dissemination, pilot implementation strategies, provide technical assistance, and support data collection and evaluation. Allowable costs must comply with federal regulations and cannot be used for prohibited activities such as discriminatory practices or activities inconsistent with federal policy. Eligibility for this opportunity is broad and inclusive. All domestic public or private entities, including nonprofit and for-profit organizations, are eligible to apply, provided they demonstrate the capacity to conduct data-driven maternal health quality improvement initiatives. Individuals are not eligible applicants. Eligible entities must operate within the United States or its territories, including Puerto Rico, Guam, and other affiliated jurisdictions. Applicants must also demonstrate the ability to manage federal cooperative agreements, develop clinical training programs, and collaborate with diverse partners such as academic institutions, professional associations, and rural health providers. The application process requires submission through Grants.gov by July 20, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. Applicants must complete standard federal forms and provide a comprehensive project narrative, budget narrative, work plan, staffing plan, and supporting documentation such as letters of support and organizational charts. Applications are evaluated through a merit review process based on criteria including need, response, performance measurement, impact, organizational capacity, and budget justification. The review process also includes risk assessment and alignment with agency priorities. Applicants are expected to align their proposals with HRSA strategic priorities, including evidence-based care, workforce development, and improved access to quality health services for vulnerable populations. The program emphasizes measurable outcomes, sustainability beyond the funding period, and national dissemination of tools and training materials. Award recipients will be required to submit annual performance reports and participate in ongoing collaboration with HRSA, including regular meetings and progress monitoring. Key dates include the posting date of June 18, 2026, an application deadline of July 20, 2026, and an expected award start date of September 1, 2026. The program is not described as recurring, and there are no pre-application requirements such as letters of intent. For additional information or technical assistance, applicants may contact the Maternal and Child Health Bureau via email at wellwomancare@hrsa.gov. The program represents a strategic federal investment in improving maternal health outcomes through workforce training, system coordination, and evidence-informed practice.

Align proposal with AIM resources and avoid duplication; clearly demonstrate measurable outcomes and workforce impact; emphasize scalability and national dissemination strategy