Oklahoma Launches Statewide Health Infrastructure Aimed at Top 10 Outcomes
TSET formally launches historic $150 million long-term investment to strengthen health systems across rural and urban Oklahoma
The Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) today launched statewide implementation of nearly $150 million in health infrastructure investments, marking the formal start of a long-term effort to strengthen health systems, expand access to care and position Oklahoma among the nation's Top 10 states for quality of life.
The 14 TSET Legacy Grants, awarded through a competitive statewide process that drew 167 applications, are now moving from award decisions into active implementation. Projects span rural and urban Oklahoma, targeting health care access, workforce development, clinical research, nutrition and community-based prevention.
"In addition to significant federal funding from the Rural Health Transformation Program, we're keeping the momentum going now with TSET’s investment in 14 projects across rural and urban Oklahoma,” Governor Stitt said. “They’re funding cancer clinical trials in Tulsa, nursing education in Ada, and food security for our students. I am glad to see something's happening in every corner of the state."
With grant agreements finalized, funded projects now enter early execution: standing up teams, initiating planning and procurement, and preparing to expand services in communities across the state. This marks the transition from commitment to action.
TSET Executive Director Julie Bisbee emphasized that execution is where credibility is earned.
“This work is about building durable capacity, not short-term programs, and staying focused on prevention that reduces chronic disease over time,” said Bisbee.
The funded projects address four priority areas: health care access and workforce development, research and clinical innovation, nutrition and obesity prevention and community-based collaboration. Individual awards range from $500,000 to $30 million, with each project focused on long-term system capacity.
TSET Board Chair Ken Rowe noted that the launch reflects why voters created the trust 25 years ago.
"These investments were designed to last," Rowe said. “Oklahoma did it right. Imagine where we can be in another 25 years as this endowment continues to mature. As a state, we are able to make big strides in transforming health for all Oklahomans. As a board, we look for strategic partnerships that will create lasting impact.”
TSET has committed to providing regular updates as project implementation progresses. Visit TSET's Newsroom for a complete list of Legacy Grant projects and award amounts.
For photos and b-roll, visit https://bit.ly/4jv2svE.
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The Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) is building a healthier future for all Oklahomans. As a state grantmaking entity, TSET supports community programs, public health initiatives and research to prevent the leading causes of chronic disease. TSET grants and partnerships help to reduce tobacco use, improve nutrition, advance medicine and increase access to active, healthy living. Created by voters and funded by the Master Settlement Agreement, TSET is creating lasting change in schools, workplaces and communities across the state. Learn more at Oklahoma.gov/TSET.
TSET – Better Lives Through Better Health