Technology-enabled Collaborative Learning Program

The Technology-enabled Collaborative Learning Program is a federal funding opportunity administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. HRSA is a federal agency focused on improving access to health care services for people who are geographically isolated or economically vulnerable. Through this program, HRSA aims to strengthen the health workforce and improve care delivery in underserved areas by leveraging innovative, technology-driven learning models. The initiative aligns with broader federal efforts to expand telehealth capacity and address provider shortages in rural and medically underserved communities. The primary purpose of the program is to support the use of technology-enabled collaborative learning models that enhance the retention of health care providers and increase access to care in rural, frontier, and underserved populations. These models typically include virtual training networks, tele-mentoring systems, and peer-to-peer learning platforms that connect providers across geographic distances. By facilitating ongoing education and collaboration, the program seeks to improve clinical outcomes, reduce professional isolation among providers, and ultimately strengthen the overall health care delivery system in areas with limited resources. Funding under this opportunity is expected to be distributed through cooperative agreements, indicating that HRSA will have substantial involvement in program activities. The total estimated program funding is 4,275,000 dollars, with approximately nine awards anticipated. Individual awards are expected to reach up to 475,000 dollars. While a minimum award amount is not clearly defined, applicants should design projects that align with the funding ceiling and demonstrate efficient and impactful use of resources. There is no cost sharing or matching requirement associated with this program, which reduces financial barriers for eligible applicants. Eligible applicants include a wide range of public and private entities, such as state and local governments, tribal governments and organizations, nonprofit organizations with or without 501(c)(3) status, institutions of higher education, school districts, and both small and large for-profit organizations. However, all applicants must meet an additional requirement: they must provide or support health care services in rural areas, frontier regions, health professional shortage areas, or medically underserved populations. This includes services directed toward Native American communities, tribal organizations, and urban Indian populations, emphasizing the program’s focus on equity and access. The application process is expected to follow standard federal grant submission procedures through electronic systems, with all applications required to be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on the stated deadline. The estimated application due date is July 2, 2026, with the funding opportunity expected to be posted on June 2, 2026. Applicants should anticipate preparing detailed proposals that outline their project design, target populations, technological approach, evaluation strategy, and organizational capacity. While specific application components are not detailed in the forecast, typical HRSA applications include narrative sections, budget justifications, and supporting documentation. Applications will be evaluated based on criteria consistent with HRSA’s mission, likely including the strength of the proposed collaborative learning model, the potential impact on provider retention and patient access, organizational capability, and alignment with program priorities. Successful applicants can expect an estimated award date of August 3, 2026, with project activities beginning around September 1, 2026. The timeline indicates a relatively rapid turnaround between submission and award, requiring applicants to be well-prepared at the time of application. The program does not explicitly state whether it is recurring, but given HRSA’s history of similar workforce and telehealth initiatives, future funding cycles may occur. Applicants are encouraged to monitor HRSA communications and Grants.gov updates for official notices and additional guidance. For further information, applicants may contact the program representative, Melody Williams, via phone or email, as provided in the opportunity listing. Overall, this funding opportunity represents a strategic investment in technology-driven health workforce development aimed at improving care access in underserved regions across the United States.