Service Area Competition

The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Health Center Program, specifically the Service Area Competition (SAC), announces a funding opportunity aimed at enhancing health services in underserved communities across the U.S. and its territories. Applications are due by September 22, 2025, with potential funding of $232 million available for 93 awards. Eligible applicants include various nonprofit and public organizations, with detailed requirements outlined for service delivery and patient targets. Key aspects include a focus on comprehensive, high-quality primary health care services and adherence to specific statutory requirements under the Public Health Service Act. Applicants must demonstrate their capability to serve a patient population effectively, with a projected service uptake of at least 75% of the stated targets. Compliance with application guidelines, including registration at SAM.gov and Grants.gov, and submissions in two phases, is necessary. The funding is designed to support essential health services such as chronic disease management, preventive care, and mental health services. Furthermore, strict budgetary and operational guidelines are established to ensure that awarded funds are utilized appropriately to meet community health needs while fostering collaboration with local health entities. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to improving health outcomes in vulnerable populations.

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) announces the FY 2026 Health Center Program Service Area Competition (SAC) funding opportunity, which aims to improve the health of underserved populations through comprehensive primary health care services. The application deadline is September 22, 2025, with an expected funding availability of $232 million for 93 grants, supporting both new and existing Health Center Program applicants. Eligible applicants include public agencies and non-profits, with requirements to serve specified medically underserved populations. Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to deliver all required services and to meet patient targets, showing they can serve a minimum of 75% of identified patients in their service areas. The application process consists of two phases—submission through Grants.gov and HRSA Electronic Handbooks. Essential components include a project narrative, budget justification, organizational information, and service delivery plans. Compliance with federal regulations and ongoing performance monitoring is mandated post-award. This funding opportunity embodies HRSA's commitment to addressing health disparities and enhancing access to essential health services across the United States and its territories.