Health Professions Careers Opportunity Program

Health Careers Exploration Program (HCEP)

 The Health Careers Exploration Program (HCEP) supports underrepresented and disadvantaged individuals to pursue healthcare careers by funding organizations that provide early exposure to health professions and promote a more culturally and linguistically diverse healthcare workforce. HCEP awards organizations up to $25,000 to institutions to support conferences, workshops, or career exploration activities, exposing students to health careers. Individuals are not eligible to apply.

Application Cycle: OPEN

Applications must be submitted by 3:00 p.m., October 16, 2026. Review the 2026 Health Careers Exploration Program (HCEP)Grant Guide for program guidance and requirements.

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Read the Grant Guide

Application Dates

  • Open August 14, 2026
  • Close October 16, 2026 

NEW FOR 2026
Applicants must now:
• Verify their 501(c)(3) status using the California Department of Justice Registry of Charitable Trusts.
• Upload proof of verification in the application.
• Provide their organizational website URL.

These new steps help streamline eligibility and strengthen program oversight.

RESOURCES

Awards

Contact Us

Email:  HPCOP@hcai.ca.gov

Phone: (916) 326-3700

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