Consortium of Rural States (CORES) Multi-Institutional Pilot Program

Innovating Together. Transforming Rural Health.
Backed by the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences’ (NCATS) Clinical & Translational Science Award (CTSA) program, the Consortium of Rural States (CORES)—representing CTSA hubs at the University of Utah Health, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, University of Arizona, Frontiers CTSI, University of Kentucky, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, University of Iowa, Dartmouth College/Dartmouth-Hitchcock, Medical University of South Carolina, and Penn State University—is thrilled to launch a new, dynamic pilot process designed to spark collaborative translational science across our multi institutional network. This initiative accelerates the
development, testing, and implementation of innovative solutions to improve health outcomes, while building strong collaborative pathways across CORES to drive meaningful care model transformation in rural communities and position these efforts for national scaling through external funding.

A Fresh, Phased Pilot Model – Calling Investigators
This year, CORES is introducing an innovative, teambuilding–first approach to project development. In Phase 1, interested investigators apply to join cross-institutional teams organized around shared translational challenges specific to our focus areas (see below). In Phase 2, the assembled teams collaborate to develop their projects, refining questions and co-creating proposals designed for real-world impact in rural settings. Finally, in Phase 3, funded projects are executed; teams work together to put their plans into action with ongoing support from the CORES consortium.

Focus Areas
Data & Technology Infrastructure for Rural Health
Harnessing AI, remote monitoring, data integration, and real-world data pipelines to create scalable, tech enabled solutions that improve health outcomes across rural environments.
Chronic Disease Prevention, Diagnosis & Management
Emphasizing partnerships with Practice-Based Research Networks (PBRNs) and clear translational and implementation strategies to improve chronic disease care in rural communities.
Maternal & Infant Health
Innovative approaches to overcoming barriers in access to maternal and infant care, with an emphasis on improving outcomes for rural populations.

Request for Applications (RFA)

Pilot Award Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The University of Arkansas Translational Research Institute is hosting two informational sessions - June 25 and June 29, 2026. 

Register to attend an informational session.

• Faculty or faculty equivalent at participating CTSA institutions (including partner institutions) who are eligible to receive federal funding.
• Non-faculty research staff or administrators may participate but will not be able to serve as PI of the funded project. They should confirm eligibility with their site administrator

All questions regarding eligibility and application submissions should be directed to Robin Liston, MPH, Project Director.