Maine Healthcare Careers Exploration Program

The Maine Healthcare Careers Exploration Program is a state-administered grant opportunity issued by the Maine Department of Education in partnership with the Maine Department of Health and Human Services. The program is funded through Maine’s participation in the federal Rural Health Transformation Program, which is designed to strengthen healthcare systems and workforce capacity in rural areas. This initiative reflects a strategic effort by the state to address workforce shortages in healthcare by building early exposure pathways for students and aligning education systems with workforce demands. The primary purpose of this grant is to develop and sustain career pipeline programming for students in grades 9 through 12. The program emphasizes exploration of healthcare careers, development of foundational skills, and meaningful engagement with healthcare professionals and employers. Funded activities are expected to integrate high school instruction with postsecondary opportunities and workforce development initiatives, ensuring that students gain both academic and experiential exposure to healthcare pathways within Maine. Funding under this program totals 500000 dollars, with up to four awards anticipated and individual awards capped at 125000 dollars. While specific allowable cost categories are not explicitly detailed, the scope of the program indicates that funds should support program design, instructional delivery, partnership development, and career exploration activities aligned with healthcare workforce development. There is no stated requirement for cost sharing or matching funds, suggesting that the grant is fully funded within the awarded amount. Eligibility is limited to school-based organizations serving grades 9 through 12, including school administrative units and high schools, as well as community-based organizations with demonstrated experience in delivering workforce or career development programming. Community-based applicants must partner with a school-based entity to be eligible. Additionally, eligibility is restricted to rural schools and students as defined by the Rural Health Transformation Program, reinforcing the program’s geographic and demographic focus. The application process is conducted through the State of Maine’s Vendor Self Service system, which serves as the exclusive portal for submission and inquiry. Applicants must ensure system registration and submit all materials by the specified deadline. Questions regarding the application must also be submitted through this platform. An informational session is offered to provide guidance, though participation is not mandatory for eligibility. The timeline for this opportunity begins with the release of the request for applications on July 10, 2026. Questions must be submitted by July 23, 2026, and full applications are due by August 4, 2026 at 4:00 PM Eastern Time. Award announcements are expected on August 31, 2026, with the performance period running from September 15, 2026 through August 31, 2027. This timeline reflects a structured and time-bound funding cycle with clearly defined milestones. There is no explicit indication that this program recurs annually, though it is tied to a broader federal funding initiative that may support future rounds. Applicants are encouraged to monitor official state procurement systems for updates. Contact information is provided through the Maine Department of Education, including a general phone line and Vendor Self Service support resources, ensuring applicants have access to assistance throughout the application process.