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Building Healthier Rural Community (BUILD) Grants Program

The purpose of the Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) Caring Foundation Building Healthier Rural Community (BUILD) Grants Program is to focus on transforming the health and well-being of rural North Dakotans and address the social determinants of health affecting its communities so we can build a better future of equity and full potential for all.

The program targets the following primary focus areas:

  • Economic stability
  • Education access and quality
  • Healthcare access and quality
  • Neighborhood and built environment
  • Social and community context

It is anticipated that six to eight grants will be awarded in the amounts of $5,000 to $7,500. Strongest consideration will be given to applicants who demonstrate strong and diverse community collaborations and sustainability.

2025 Guidance

Important Dates:
November 15, 2024 Proposals must be submitted via online submission by 5:00 pm Central
December 22, 2024 Notification of awards
January 1, 2025 Funding period begins
June 1, 2025 Interim report due
December 31, 2025 Project must be completed and funds expended. Final report and invoice must be submitted.

Year 20 Awardees, 2025

These projects must be completed and funds expended by December 31, 2025. Final report and invoice must be submitted by December 31, 2025.

  • Altru Health Foundation – Devils Lake
    This focus will be to integrate the advanced Crit-Line monitoring system, enabling precise fluid management and real-time adjustments for improved safety and outcomes for patients.
  • CHI St. Alexius Health – Dickinson
    This project will be to implement Care Kits to decrease barriers to care for patients, in turn focusing on the health of the patient population and community.
  • West River Health Services (WRHS) Foundation – Hettinger
    This project will be to assist in renovating the obstetrics wing of WRHS.
  • Jamestown Regional Medical Center – Jamestown
    This project will add a lactation pod at Two Rivers Activity Center.
  • Emmons County Public Health – Linton
    The focus of this project is to provide Emmons County's rural schools with healthcare education, screenings, safety education, and support services, as well as establish a supply of hygiene products for students to discreetly obtain if they are unable to afford them.
  • Peer Vision for Mental Health – Minot
    This project will develop veteran peer support for rural veteran mental health, with a goal to reduce rural veteran suicide rates in the north central region of North Dakota.
  • Heart of America Medical Center – Rugby
    This project will increase community engagement in physical activity, improve health outcomes, and reduce the effects of sedentary lifestyles.
  • Northland Health Centers – Turtle Lake
    The focus of this project is to provide essential resources – such as food, clothing, hygiene supplies, and school supplies – to students and their families facing hardships.

Summaries of Past BCBSND Grants