The Florida Blue Foundation is accepting grant applications from Florida nonprofits working to improve maternal health outcomes across the state, with approximately $3 million earmarked for the new four-year grant program.
The Jacksonville-based foundation announced the latest funding opportunity on Monday, Aug. 31, as it looks to support organizations developing solutions to some of Florida’s ongoing maternal health challenges.
Applications are open to Florida-based nonprofits with documented experience and expertise in improving maternal health outcomes. Applications are due Monday, Oct. 5, at 3 p.m. ET.
According to the Florida Blue Foundation, the grant program will focus on two primary areas:
- Improving maternal health outcomes for women living with chronic conditions.
- Expanding perinatal and postpartum mental health support.
Chronic conditions, including hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity, can increase the risk of serious pregnancy-related complications and are among the factors contributing to maternal morbidity and mortality in Florida.
The foundation is also seeking organizations that can help address gaps in access to care, particularly for families living in under-resourced communities and rural areas.
Florida Maternal Care Access Challenges
The need for additional maternal health resources is particularly significant in parts of Florida where access to maternity care can be limited.
The Florida Blue Foundation cited Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data showing that Florida’s maternal mortality rate is higher than the national average. The foundation also reported that 19.4% of Florida counties are classified as maternity care deserts.
Rural communities face some of the largest access challenges. According to the foundation, 100% of women living in rural areas are more than 30 minutes from a birthing hospital, compared with 10.7% of women in urban areas.
The grant program is intended in part to help nonprofits develop and expand solutions in communities facing these barriers.
AI and Innovative Solutions
The Florida Blue Foundation said it will give special consideration to organizations using innovative technology to improve maternal health services.
That includes AI-powered solutions such as chatbots and predictive analytics, which could be used to connect patients with resources, identify potential health risks, or provide additional support throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Organizations serving under-resourced communities and Florida’s rural counties will also receive special consideration.
“Every mother and baby in Florida deserves care they can count on, before, during, and after birth. That’s what drives us,” said Susan Towler, vice president of the Florida Blue Foundation. “When we partner with nonprofits doing this work on the ground, we’re helping them reach the families who need support the most. Together, we’re building a healthier Florida, one family at a time.”
How Florida Nonprofits Can Apply
The Florida Blue Foundation has earmarked approximately $3 million for the new maternal health grant program. Grants will be awarded for a four-year period, with the latest recipients expected to be announced in early 2027.
Nonprofits interested in applying must demonstrate experience and expertise in improving maternal health outcomes.
Applications are due Oct. 5, by 3 p.m. Eastern Time.
More information about the grant program, eligibility requirements and the application process is available through the Florida Blue Foundation. The foundation also recommends applicants watch its educational webinar about the grant opportunity.
The Florida Blue Foundation, the philanthropic affiliate of Florida Blue and part of the GuideWell portfolio of companies, has invested in community initiatives across Florida since 2001. Its work includes efforts focused on food security, mental well-being, healthy communities and health disparities.
The foundation says its community investments result in services reaching an average of 10 million Floridians each year.
