The HRSA-25-016 Funding Opportunity, titled Service Area Competition (SAC), is designed to support the continuation of affordable, accessible, and high-quality primary health care services in underserved communities across the United States. The program, administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), focuses on health centers that provide comprehensive primary care services to vulnerable populations such as individuals and families experiencing homelessness, migratory and seasonal agricultural workers, and residents of public housing. The goal of the program is to enhance the health outcomes of these populations, irrespective of their ability to pay.

HRSA anticipates allocating approximately $244 million to fund up to 88 recipients during this competition cycle. Each awarded organization will receive funding for a three-year project period, beginning May 1, 2025, and ending April 30, 2028. Award recipients must aim to serve at least 75% of the target patient population specified in the program, with potential reductions applied if this threshold is not met.

Eligible applicants for the SAC include both private non-profit entities and public agencies located in the U.S. or its territories. Tribal organizations, tribal community-based entities, and urban Indian organizations are also eligible to apply. Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to provide comprehensive primary health care services, including medical, dental, and behavioral health services, to underserved populations without regard to the patients' ability to pay.

The application process is divided into two phases. Phase 1 applications must be submitted via Grants.gov by October 15, 2024, while Phase 2 submissions are due through the HRSA Electronic Handbooks (EHBs) by November 14, 2024. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement for this program, and applicants can expect award notifications around May 1, 2025.

HRSA will evaluate applicants based on several criteria, including the demonstrated need for services in the proposed service area, the quality and effectiveness of the service delivery plan, collaboration with other local health care providers, organizational capabilities and resources, and the governance structure of the applicant. Applications must include a detailed project narrative, a budget proposal, and supplementary documentation that confirms compliance with Health Center Program requirements.