Renown's 2027-2029 Community Health Implementation Strategy & Funding Opportunities

Today, Renown Health released its 2027-2029 Community Health Implementation Strategy, outlining how the health system will work alongside community partners to address the most pressing health needs identified through the 2026 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). Additionally, applications are now open for Renown's 2027 grant cycle. As northern Nevada's largest independent, locally owned not-for-profit academic health system, Renown Health reinvests 100% of its profits back into programs, services and partnerships that improve community health.

"The Community Health Needs Assessment helped us understand where our community faces the greatest challenges and opportunities," said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President and CEO, Renown Health. "Our implementation strategy represents our commitment to action. Through collaboration, investment and measurable goals, we will continue working alongside community partners to improve health outcomes across northern Nevada. As a not-for-profit academic health system, this work is imperative to our commitment to improving our community's health and ensuring our resources are directed toward areas of greatest need.”

The three-year strategy focuses on four priority areas identified through the CHNA: mental health, access to health services, economic stability, and health risk behaviors and early detection. To support implementation of these priorities, Renown is opening applications for community funding opportunities designed to advance local solutions to identified health needs.

The 2027-2029 Community Health implementation strategy is available here.

From Assessment to Action

Released in August, the 2026 CHNA reflected extensive community engagement and analysis of local health data to better understand the health needs of Washoe County residents. The assessment incorporated input from nearly 700 community members through surveys, interviews, focus groups and community discussions. This feedback, combined with analysis of local health indicators and demographic data, helped identify the issues having the greatest impact on community health and quality of life.

Those findings informed the development of Renown's 2027-2029 Community Health implementation strategy, which establishes goals, priorities and actions to improve community health over the next three years. The strategy outlines Renown's role as a healthcare provider, convener, strategic investor and community partner. Through collaboration with nonprofit organizations, public agencies, educational institutions and other stakeholders, Renown will work to advance shared goals and create measurable improvements in community health.

"The implementation strategy reflects what we heard from our community and the collective commitment of our partners to improve health outcomes," said Cristal Woodley, MBA, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer, Renown Health. "By translating community input into measurable goals, strategic partnerships and investments, we are taking meaningful steps toward a healthier future. I’m proud of Renown’s role and responsibility to strengthen and support the community organizations addressing needs we cannot meet alone, investing in their expertise and extending our collective ability. Together, we can and will make a meaningful difference."

The strategy aligns with broader regional efforts to improve health and well-being and will guide Renown's Community Benefit investments and community partnerships through 2029.

Investing in Community-Led Solutions

To support implementation of these priorities, Renown is opening applications for the 2027 Better Together Community Benefit Grants. Administered by Renown, the Better Together Community Benefit Grant Program provides grants of up to $10,000 annually for community-based projects that address one or more priority health needs identified through the Community Health Needs Assessment. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, school districts, public agencies and other governmental entities serving northern Nevada communities.

In the Better Together Grant application, nonprofits can select the option to apply for the three-year grants distributed by both Renown and Northern Nevada Public Health. Initiatives for these grants should advance larger-scale solutions to the most significant health needs identified through the 2026 CHNA. Based on the proposed initiative, available funding and alignment with organizational priorities, awards may be funded by Renown Health, Northern Nevada Public Health or jointly by both organizations.

Organizations interested in applying can learn more and access application materials here.

Grant Timeline

• Monday, Oct. 5: Applications open for Better Together Community Benefit Grants.
• Wednesday, Oct. 21: Virtual grant information sessions and applicant Q&A.
• Friday, Nov. 13, at 5 p.m. PST: Application deadline.
• January 2027: Grant award notifications and funding decisions.

About Renown Health

As the state’s first and only not-for-profit academic health system, Renown Health is dedicated to transforming lives, strengthening communities, and providing care for all people across Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Together with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Renown Health improves health and lives through exceptional care, comprehensive education and training, and innovative research to ensure a healthier future for Nevada. Learn more at renown.org/together.