News
Partners in Rural Health Transformation Webinar Series
The CMS Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program places states at the center of efforts to strengthen access, quality, and sustainability in rural health systems. As states move from planning to implementation, success depends on effective leadership, strong partnerships, and practical approaches that reflect the realities of rural communities.
This three-part national webinar series, hosted by AscendRural, brought together state leaders, health plans, and innovators from across the country to explore how rural health transformation would be implemented on the ground. Through real-world perspectives and cross-sector discussion, the series explored what it takes to translate the RHT framework into meaningful, lasting change.
The Future of Accelerators Belongs in Rural
To understand the funding opportunity gaps innovations in rural areas face, begin with this: rural businesses represent 12% of all U.S. firms but receive less than 1% of venture capital with more than half of capital flowing to only five major metro areas. This funding gap is not limited to just venture dollars. When it comes to federal funding, counties are more likely to receive funding when they have greater staff capacity and payroll spending.
Partners in Rural Health Transformation: From Framework to Function
Rural health systems continue to face structural challenges that are unlikely to be solved by any single program or funding stream. Workforce shortages, fragile provider finances, limited infrastructure, and geographic barriers remain persistent realities.
Rethinking Distance to Care in Rural Communities
By looking beyond miles and toward new models of care, transportation, and service delivery, we can help communities design systems that are more responsive, more equitable, and better aligned with the realities of rural life.
Registration now open for the AscendRural 2026 National Summit
AscendRural announces registration is now open for the AscendRural 2026 National Summit, taking place March 31–April 1, 2026, at the Omni Viking Lakes Hotel in Eagan, Minn.
Well-being of Rural Communities Takes Center Stage at Nov. 30- Dec. 2 AscendRural National Summit
Registration is now open for the AscendRural 2026 National Summit, taking place Nov. 30-Dec. 2 at the Omni Viking Lakes Hotel in Eagan, Minn. The three-day national gathering will bring together rural thought leaders, community problem-solvers, healthcare and technology innovators, entrepreneurs, funders, and policymakers to explore what's working, what's next, and the partnerships needed to transform federal investments in rural America into lasting impact.
A new path to government procurement built with rural communities at the center
A new initiative is redefining how technology startups connect with public sector opportunities. AscendRural, a program of Sourcewell, is introducing a scalable, challenge-based procurement model designed to better serve rural communities.
Closing the Rural Care Gap: AgeTech Startups Bringing Healthcare Closer to Older Adults
Older adults in small towns and remote, rural communities across America often sit at an unfortunate intersection of poor health and inaccessible healthcare.
AscendRural and the Center for Rural Policy & Development Collaborate on Turning Data Into Action Strategies With Big Impact on Health & Well-being in Rural Communities
AscendRural announced a new collaborative partnership with research and data source the Center for Rural Policy & Development (CRPD).
Partners in Rural Health Transformation: From Framework to Function
Rural health systems continue to face structural challenges that are unlikely to be solved by any single program or funding stream. Workforce shortages, fragile provider finances, limited infrastructure, and geographic barriers remain persistent realities.
Wired for Rural Well-Being: How Broadband Unlocks Opportunity
AscendRural identifies three high-impact areas where broadband investments can deliver returns.
Special Minnesota startup opportunity closes this Friday, April 11
MN Cup and AscendRural are teaming up to bring innovation to rural communities.
AscendRural aims to bridge the gap between innovation and central Minnesota
Community leaders, technology partners tackle rural-focused challenges.
A Community-Driven Approach to Rural Innovation
We believe that lasting change in rural America comes from within.
White Paper Emphasizes need for Innovative Solutions to Improve Rural Health
AscendRural releases white paper on rural mental health in collaboration with Heartland Forward.
Rural Communities Deserve a Seat at the Innovation Table
We're working to elevate rural America as a key player in the innovation ecosystem.
Announcing New Managing Director
AscendRural is thrilled to announce the start of our new Managing Director, Melissa Kjolsing