Maine Healthcare Careers Exploration Program

The Maine Department of Education, in partnership with the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, is requesting applications for grant funding to build healthcare career exploration programming for Maine high school students in grades 9–12 residing in rural areas, with applications due August 4, 2026. Eligible applicants are school-based organizations (public schools, charter schools, or School Administrative Units) or community-based organizations with demonstrated track records delivering career exploration or occupational training in partnership with schools; community-based organizations applying in partnership with a school must submit a letter of intent signed by the Superintendent or authorized signatory and the CBO Executive Director, with commitment to complete a Memorandum of Understanding prior to contract approval.

Total grant funding available is $500,000, with individual awards up to $125,000 and up to four awards anticipated. The contract period runs from September 15, 2026 through August 31, 2027, with potential extension for an additional year if funds become available. Funding is sourced through the federal Rural Health Transformation Program.

Allowable uses include personnel costs for program staff and instruction, postsecondary coursework costs (up to six credits from accredited Maine-based institutions), healthcare occupations training and certifications, transportation reimbursement at GSA per diem rates, and supplies including Personal Protective Equipment. Non-allowable expenses include food and beverage, equipment purchases of $5,000 or more, construction, clothing, gift cards, out-of-state travel, student stipends, credentialing providing initial entry into healthcare occupations, and indirect or overhead costs. Applicants must demonstrate fiscal capacity or partner with an organization for financial management.

Required program activities include quarterly reporting with success stories, participation in learning cohorts, formal partnerships with healthcare providers or businesses, advising and navigation support, wraparound support services including transportation, and participant data tracking. Evaluation is weighted as Organization Qualifications and Experience (20 points), Proposed Program (55 points), and Budget (25 points). An informational Zoom session is scheduled for July 16, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Questions are due July 23, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. Applications must be submitted via the Vendor Self Service System.