The Michigan Office of Rural Prosperity (ORP) announced $4 million in funding through the 2027 Rural Development Fund grant cycle, offering an opportunity for rural hospitals and their community partners to advance projects that support access to care, workforce and heathier communities. Letters of intent are due at 5 p.m. ET on Nov. 2, 2026. 

Rural hospitals play an important role in their communities as care providers, employers and partners in local development. This funding may help hospitals and community organizations build on that role through workforce initiatives, community infrastructure improvements and regional partnerships that respond to local needs. 

The grant cycle includes two funding categories: 

• Community and Business Development: Grants of up to $100,000 for projects supporting infrastructure, community facilities, workforce and economic development, business development, planning and capacity building. 

• Regional Collaboration: Grants of up to $200,000 to establish formal regional partnerships and shared-service models that address multi-county needs through shared staff, expertise and systems. 

Hospitals may consider exploring projects with community partners, such as regional workforce recruitment and training initiatives, shared grant-writing or planning staff, or improvements to community facilities that support local services. These partnerships can help rural communities combine resources and build the capacity needed to sustain important services. Members should review the program’s guidelines to determine whether a proposed project is eligible. 

Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations, businesses, local governments, federally recognized Tribes, educational institutions and other eligible entities. Projects must serve one or more eligible rural areas in Michigan. 

Rural hospitals are encouraged to review the opportunity and connect with community partners to identify projects that address shared priorities and strengthen the communities they serve. 

Program guidelines, frequently asked questions, the letter of intent template and the submission link are available on the Rural Development Fund Grants webpage. Questions may be directed to ORP’s Grants Program. 

Phone: (517) 323-3443
Fax: (517) 323-0946

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