NCPA Foundation launches rural ownership program
By HME News Staff
Updated 10:20 AM CDT, Wed October 22, 2025
NEW ORLEANS – The NCPA Foundation has launched the Rural Pharmacy Ownership Accelerator, a comprehensive 12-month virtual program designed to prepare future pharmacy owners to successfully open and operate pharmacies in rural America. The free, application-based program addresses the growing shortage of pharmacies in rural communities by reducing barriers to ownership and providing aspiring pharmacy owners with the knowledge, resources and professional connections needed to turn their vision into reality. “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,” said Sonja Pagniano, executive director of the NCPA Foundation. “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.” The inaugural cohort for the accelerator will be limited to 15 participants. Applications are open to aspiring pharmacy owners pursuing various pathways to ownership, including those starting new pharmacies from scratch, inheriting family businesses or exploring partnership opportunities with pharmacy groups. For more information about the Rural Pharmacy Ownership Accelerator or to apply, visit ncpafoundation.org/ruralpharmacyownership or contact ncpaf@ncpafoundation.org.
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