A collaborative effort between FoundationCCC and the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office has recently expanded nursing education opportunities in underserved regions while helping address California’s critical nursing shortage.

Through a $70,000 Nursing Education Investment Grant award, the Pathways to Equity: Expanding Nursing Education Capacity in Underserved Regions project worked to strengthen nursing education pathways, support underserved colleges, and expand access to nursing careers for adult learners and incumbent workers throughout the state.

The initiative focused on increasing Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program capacity while advancing equity and innovation in nursing education. By bringing together community colleges, healthcare partners, and workforce stakeholders, the project provided resources and guidance to help colleges expand enrollment opportunities and build sustainable solutions that meet regional workforce needs.

A key component of the project was a statewide professional development series that equipped nursing programs with tools and strategies to grow and strengthen their programs. The team delivered webinars on grant readiness, nursing program expansion, technology integration, and equity-centered approaches to student success. More than 80% of California community college nursing programs participated, demonstrating a strong interest in innovative solutions.

The project also provided direct support to colleges seeking additional resources for nursing program growth. As a result, 24 of California’s 77 community college nursing programs received assistance in developing competitive grant applications to secure funding for expansion efforts.

Innovation remained central to the initiative. Colleges were introduced to opportunities for simulation-based learning, AI-enhanced instruction, and technology-enabled program delivery models that can help expand access to high-quality nursing education while preparing students for evolving healthcare environments.

Among the project’s most significant accomplishments was the development of the Nursing Shortage Designation Map, a tool that helps identify regions with the greatest workforce needs and aligns with the California Community Colleges’ Vision 2030 goals. The map supports efforts to create targeted pathways for incumbent workers and adult learners pursuing careers in nursing, helping ensure resources and opportunities are directed where they can have the greatest impact.

Through cross-sector collaboration, the Pathways to Equity project is helping colleges build stronger nursing programs and expand access to healthcare careers in underserved communities. Administered by FoundationCCC, the Nursing Education Investment Grants Program continues to support innovative approaches to nursing education throughout the California Community College system. 

Learn more about the Nursing Education Investment Grants Program >