The Innovation in Healthcare grant from the Patterson Family Foundation invites rural-serving organizations to propose groundbreaking ideas aimed at improving healthcare access and outcomes in underserved communities. This grant is designed to support the testing and development of new healthcare delivery models, with an emphasis on long-term sustainability and measurable impact. While all innovative healthcare approaches are welcome, the Foundation will give priority to proposals focused on expanding maternal care services in rural areas, addressing a critical gap in healthcare equity.

The funding range for this opportunity is $250,000 to $500,000, positioning it for substantial initiatives that require robust implementation and evaluation. The Foundation seeks projects that test bold concepts—particularly those that could inform future practices and models for rural health systems across the country. Proposals should aim to be transformative, rather than incremental, and demonstrate potential for replicability or scalability.

Geographic eligibility is limited to counties in Kansas and western Missouri with populations under 50,000. The grant process follows the Foundation’s two-round annual schedule. Round 1 opens April 1, 2025 at 12:00 PM CST, with Letters of Intent (LOIs) due by April 18 and full applications due by May 9. Round 2 LOIs must be submitted by July 3, with full applications due July 25, 2025. Funding decisions will be communicated in August (Round 1) and October (Round 2).

All applicants must first register in the Foundation’s Grants Portal before being granted access to the LOI form. Registration is due by April 18 for Round 1 and July 3 for Round 2, both by 12:00 PM CST. Returning organizations may log in using their existing credentials. Once eligibility is confirmed, applicants can access and submit their LOIs.

To assist with the application process, the Foundation offers Office Hours from 1 – 3 PM, where applicants can schedule personalized sessions. To reserve a slot, email Sasha Winterowd at sasha.winterowd@pffkc.org, including your name, email, preferred session date, and three questions at least two business days in advance. General inquiries may be directed to info@pffkc.org.

The Foundation emphasizes a rigorous and competitive review process. Applicants are cautioned not to imply or announce receipt of funding until formal award letters are issued. If selected, grantees will receive guidance on how to publicly communicate the award. Final funding decisions are made in writing and do not imply future support beyond the current award cycle.