Nursing Workforce Diversity

The Nursing Workforce Diversity (NWD) program, administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), aims to enhance nursing education access for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. As a sub-agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, HRSA operates various initiatives to improve healthcare access and equity across the nation. This specific funding opportunity, HRSA-26-095, is forecasted for release in April 2026 and aligns with HRSA’s broader mission of strengthening the healthcare workforce, particularly in underserved communities. The NWD program is intended to increase the diversity of the nursing workforce by supporting the education and training of individuals from historically underrepresented or economically disadvantaged backgrounds. By doing so, the program seeks to reduce health disparities and ensure culturally competent care across diverse populations. Grants are made available to a wide variety of institutions, including accredited nursing schools, academic health centers, and both public and private entities that provide nursing education or related support services. With an estimated total funding pool of $20,000,000 and up to 36 expected awards, each grant is anticipated to range from a floor of $1 to a ceiling of $555,000. The program does not require cost sharing or matching funds, which broadens accessibility for applicants. Allowable uses for the funds are expected to include scholarships, stipends, mentorship, educational enrichment, and other supportive services that increase the success and retention of disadvantaged students in nursing education pathways. However, the specific use guidelines will be further clarified upon the full announcement of the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). Eligibility is broad and inclusive, covering city and county governments, state and tribal entities (both recognized and non-recognized), school districts, and public or private nonprofit institutions of higher education. Faith-based organizations, community-based groups, and domestic public or private entities are also eligible to apply. This diversity of eligible applicants reflects HRSA’s commitment to engaging organizations embedded within underserved communities. Applications will be submitted electronically, and the expected application due date is May 21, 2026, by 11:59 p.m. ET. The estimated award and project start date is September 1, 2026. At present, there are no stated pre-application requirements such as a letter of intent or concept paper. Submission will likely be completed via Grants.gov, consistent with HRSA’s standard procedures. Applicants should monitor the HRSA site for additional application components and evaluation criteria once the full NOFO is released. The primary contact for this grant is Jasmine Price, reachable by phone at 301-443-7151 or via email at [email protected]. No PDF or downloadable NOFO was provided as this is a forecasted opportunity. As such, applicants should prepare for a forthcoming release on or after April 6, 2026. With recurring references to annual cycles, it is likely that this program operates on a yearly basis. The internal check-in date for future planning is recommended for April 1, 2027, and the next expected cycle can tentatively be projected for May 2027.