New Free Program Launches to Address Rural Pharmacy Shortage, Equip Next Generation of Pharmacy Owners

NEW ORLEANS, La. (Oct. 20, 2025) – The NCPA Foundation today announced the launch of 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.

Rural communities across America face a critical shortage of pharmacy services, with many residents traveling significant distances to access medications and pharmacy care. The Rural Pharmacy Ownership Accelerator aims to reverse this trend by equipping the next generation of rural pharmacy owners with the business acumen and rural-specific expertise necessary to establish thriving pharmacies where they’re needed most.

“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.”

Over 12 months, participants will master critical ownership competencies. The inaugural cohort 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.

The Rural Pharmacy Ownership Accelerator perfectly complements NCPA’s in-person Pharmacy Ownership Workshop. This new program serves as an accessible entry point to help pharmacy entrepreneurs start their ownership journey and gain access to resources that are designed specifically for pharmacy ownership in rural communities. Whether participants attend the NCPA Pharmacy Ownership Workshop before joining the accelerator or use the accelerator to prepare for the NCPA Pharmacy Ownership Workshop, together these programs offer a comprehensive ownership education pathway.

“Rural pharmacists often serve as the most accessible health care provider in their community,” said NCPA Foundation Board of Trustees member Donnie Calhoun. “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.”

Applications for the inaugural cohort are now open to anyone interested in rural pharmacy ownership. Priority will be given to applicants with clearly defined ownership plans, including an identified target community or region and a timeline for opening within 3-5 years.

The program’s virtual format ensures accessibility for participants across the country, requiring approximately 4-6 hours of engagement monthly, including live sessions, self-directed activities, and community participation.

For more information about the Rural Pharmacy Ownership Accelerator or to apply, visit ncpafoundation.org/ruralpharmacyownership or contact ncpaf@ncpafoundation.org.