RHTP Initiative 6.2 Assisted Living Modernization Grant Program

Applications are now open for the RHTP Initiative 6.2 Assisted Living Modernization Grant ProgramThis Nebraska Health Care Foundation/Nebraska Health Care Association initiative is funded through the federal Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) via the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.

The program is designed to support modernization efforts in eligible rural assisted living facilities to enhance their capacity to provide care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. The objective is to increase the number of assisted living facilities statewide that are equipped to provide complex dementia care through targeted investments in safety, environment, and therapeutic enhancements.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: June 30, 2026
MAXIMUM AWARD PER FACILITY: $500,000

TOTAL FUNDS AVAILABLE: $1,000,000


Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Be a Nebraska-licensed assisted living facility
  • Currently participate in Nebraska Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services waiver program(s)
  • Be located outside of Douglas, Lancaster, and Sarpy counties
  • Currently provide care for individuals with Alzheimer’s/dementia or demonstrate intent to provide such care upon project completion
  • Be able to complete project by October 1, 2026
  • Be able to pay for cost of project in advance
  • Be able to provide the following to NHCF prior to receiving funds from NHCF:
    • Proof of competitive pricing (bids) for project
    • Proof of the facility’s payment to the project vendor(s)
    • Itemized invoice to NHCF, with supporting documentation
    • Proof of completed work (e.g., photo or video of completed project)
    • Be willing to comply with regular reporting requirements
    • Be willing to provide requested documentation in the event of an audit


Allowable Use of Funds

  • Wander management systems
  • Fall detection systems
  • Nurse call system upgrades or modifications
  • Anti-glare flooring
  • Specialized lighting
  • Visual cueing and wayfinding systems
  • Sensory rooms and equipment
  • Dementia-specific furniture
  • Patient engagement technology
  • Secured wander gardens
  • Safe-access pathways and landscaping


Unallowable Uses of Funds

  • Real estate purchases or new building construction
  • Major construction or large-scale remodeling
  • Routine operating expenses or existing budget items
  • Resident room/board or medical supplies
  • Standard maintenance or general facility upkeep
  • Marketing, advertising, or promotional campaigns
  • Non-programmatic furniture or equipment
  • Costs that are unreasonable, unnecessary, or above market rate without justification


Application and Award Process

NHCF will redact applicants’ identifying information prior to submission to the review committee. The review committee will be comprised of experts in the fields of memory care, regulatory compliance, and facility operations, who will not be eligible to apply. Applications will be scored according to a predetermined scoring system.


Application Launch:
June 1, 2026

Application Deadline: June 30, 2026

Award Notifications: July 24, 2026

Reimbursement to awardees: After NHCF is in receipt of funds from DHHS, which is anticipated to be before October 30, 2026.