The NCPA Foundation has introduced the Rural Pharmacy Ownership Accelerator, a new 12-month virtual program aimed at preparing future pharmacy owners to establish and operate pharmacies in rural areas. The initiative responds to a shortage of pharmacy services in many rural communities, where residents often have to travel long distances for medications and care.
The program is free and application-based, targeting aspiring pharmacy owners interested in starting new businesses, taking over family pharmacies, or forming partnerships with existing groups. The first cohort will be limited to 15 participants.
Sonja Pagniano, executive director of the NCPA Foundation, said, “Access to pharmacy services shouldn’t depend on your ZIP code, and up-and-coming pharmacy entrepreneurs should have all the resources they need to be able to open a pharmacy and succeed in a rural community. This program removes the knowledge and networking barriers that often prevent passionate people from opening practices in rural areas. By providing expert training, experienced mentors, and business-planning support at no cost, we’re helping to create a clear pathway to ownership for those committed to serving underserved communities.”
Participants will engage in about 4-6 hours per month of live sessions, self-directed learning activities, and community involvement. Applications are open nationwide, with priority given to those who have defined plans for ownership—such as identifying a target community or region—and who intend to open within three to five years.
The Rural Pharmacy Ownership Accelerator complements NCPA’s existing in-person Pharmacy Ownership Workshop by offering an accessible entry point for entrepreneurs seeking resources tailored specifically for rural ownership. Participants may use either program as preparation for the other.
Donnie Calhoun, a member of the NCPA Foundation Board of Trustees, said: “Rural pharmacists often serve as the most accessible health care provider in their community. This program prepares pharmacy owners not just to run a successful business, but to ensure they are the trusted health care leaders in their communities.”
The NCPA Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 1953 with a mission focused on advancing independent community pharmacists’ sustainability and public understanding.
More information about the Rural Pharmacy Ownership Accelerator can be found at ncpafoundation.org/ruralpharmacyownership.
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